Fill up with water on the go

Fill up with water on the go

Filling up with water on the go is an essential part of life in a motorhome, whether you're planning an adventure in the great outdoors or embarking on an extended tour across the country. A reliable supply of clean and safe drinking water is crucial for the health and well-being of all travelers. In this comprehensive guide, you'll find the best practices and safe methods for filling up your water tank, along with important information on different water sources and their quality. From identifying safe water points to effective water filtration and treatment to water tank maintenance, we cover everything you need to know for a worry-free water supply on the road.

The importance of clean drinking water when travelling

The importance of clean drinking water when travelling can hardly be overestimated. Water is not only the basis of all life, but also a crucial factor for a healthy and fulfilling travelling experience. When travelling, especially in a motorhome where freedom and flexibility are paramount, a regular supply of clean water becomes both a challenge and a priority.

Clean drinking water plays a dual role: on the one hand, it is used to meet daily hydration needs and, on the other, it is essential for preparing meals and personal hygiene. The quality of available water has a direct impact on health. Contaminated water can cause a variety of illnesses, from mild indigestion to serious infections, which can not only make travelling uncomfortable but also dangerously disrupt it.

When travelling, we often rely on water sources whose quality we cannot easily judge. It is therefore important to rely on proven methods of water purification and treatment. Modern water filters and treatment solutions can help remove potential contaminants and ensure that the water is safe to drink. At the same time, the ability to effectively purify and store water allows us greater independence from local utilities and the freedom to explore more remote areas.

Finding safe water sources

Identifying safe water sources is essential for your health when travelling. Trusted sources include public water points that are regularly inspected and campsites with certified water quality. Before using natural sources such as rivers or lakes, the water should be filtered and treated to avoid contamination. Pay attention to clear instructions on drinkability and use a water quality test, for example, to obtain certainty about the prevailing water quality. Check local recommendations in advance and use a camping water filter to ensure your water is free from contaminants.

The different types of water sources

When it comes to the supply of new water, you have the option of using different water sources. Each has both advantages and disadvantages. To ensure that the water you use is clean and safe, it is important to know the characteristics of the different water sources:

  • Public water points

    Public water points can often be found in towns, parks or service stations. They generally offer drinking water quality, as the water is usually treated and regularly tested. However, it is important to check the cleanliness of the tap and ensure that no cross-contamination can occur through hoses or connections. Public water points are a reliable option for refilling your water tank safely.

  • Campsites and service areas

    Many campsites and service areas have their own supply points for drinking water. These are specially designed for travellers and offer a convenient way to fill up with water. Attention should be paid to the purity of the tap and it is advisable to obtain information on water quality from the operator. If you are not staying at a campsite, you will usually be charged a fee for using the water.

  • Natural springs

    Natural springs such as rivers, lakes or mountain springs can be tempting, but without appropriate treatment they harbour risks. The quality of water from natural springs can vary greatly and be affected by environmental factors. Before use, the water should always be filtered to eliminate possible impurities and pathogens. When drawing water from natural sources, consideration should also be given to environmental protection.

  • Buying bottled drinking water

    As a last resort or in an emergency, bottled drinking water can also be purchased. This is particularly useful in areas where safe water sources are not available. However, buying bottled water, especially disposable plastic bottles, should remain the exception due to the environmental impact and should be replaced by more sustainable solutions such as a water filter.

Apps for finding water sources on the go

Thanks to digital tools, finding water sources while travelling in Australia has never been easier. Apps like CamperMate and WikiCamps Australia are popular choices, offering extensive databases of water refill points, rest areas, and campgrounds with user reviews to help you stay prepared on the road.

These digital tools are not only handy for finding the nearest water source, but also for making travel planning more efficient and environmentally conscious. By using apps, travellers can ensure they have access to clean water while helping to reduce the use of plastic bottles.

Evaluation of water quality

Water quality can be assessed on the basis of various parameters such as clarity, odour, taste and, in particular, microbiological and chemical constituents. It is advisable to test water sources before use, especially if you are travelling or drawing from natural sources. Drinking water test kits that check for bacteria, viruses, heavy metals and chlorides are helpful tools to ensure water safety. A thorough assessment helps to avoid health risks and contributes to a worry-free travelling experience.

Different types of water tanks for motorhomes

Water tanks play a central role in the self-sufficient water supply of motorhomes and campers. They make it possible to take a vital resource with you when travelling. Depending on the design, size and intended use of the motorhome, there are different types of water tanks on board. These include, among others:

  • Fresh water tank

    The fresh water tank is essential for the supply of drinking and service water. It stores the clean water used for cooking, washing, showering and the toilet. The size of the fresh water tank can range from small units of around 20 litres for compact campervans to large tanks of over 200 litres for more extensively equipped motorhomes. The choice of size depends on the number of travellers, the duration of the trip and the individual water consumption.

  • Grey water tank

    The grey water tank collects dirty water from the shower, washbasin and kitchen. It is less contaminated than black water and can, under certain circumstances, be reused for flushing toilets or for irrigation, provided it is treated accordingly. The grey water tank is an important part of the water management system in a motorhome. The size of the tank is often matched to the capacity of the fresh water tank to ensure a balance between the availability of clean water and the capacity for waste water.

  • Black water tank

    This tank is designed to hold waste water from the toilet and requires careful handling and disposal to avoid health risks and environmental pollution.

  • Mobile water tank

    Additional mobile water tanks offer a practical solution for travellers who want to be self-sufficient for longer periods or are travelling in regions with limited access to water. These can be easily filled and stowed away and filled into the built-in water tank when required.
Befüllschlauch mit Wasserfilter am Wohnmobil

Best practices for filling up with water

If you're travelling with your motorhome and it's time to fill up with water, good preparation is essential. Here you will find best practices for refuelling so that you can always drive safely and cleanly:

Preparation and necessary equipment

Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary utensils on hand. This includes clean water hoses that are only used for drinking water. Flex hoses, for example, are also ideal as they can be adjusted to the required length and therefore won't be dragged around on the dirty floor. A reliable water filter can provide additional safety. You should also have adapters for different water connections with you so that you can react flexibly to the conditions at the petrol station.

Step-by-step guide to filling the tank safely

  1. Search for the nearest suitable water source using one of the apps mentioned above and, if possible, find out about the water quality on site in advance

  2. Check the water source for cleanliness and whether it is labelled as drinking water

  3. Let the water flow briefly to remove any impurities in the hose.

  4. Connect your cleaned water hose to the tap. Use an adapter if necessary.

  5. Attach a mobile water filter or filling filter between the hose and the filler neck of your motorhome.

  6. Fill the tank slowly to avoid pressure surges and splashing water.

  7. Take care not to overfill the tank and close the filler neck tightly.

Water filtration and treatment

Water filtration and treatment in a motorhome is an essential measure to ensure that clean and safe drinking water is always available. When travelling, the water quality can vary greatly depending on which of the various water sources you use, and it is not always guaranteed that the water you fill up with is free of impurities.

This is where water filters play a key role by removing contaminants, bacteria and other unwanted particles from the water. An effective water filter can help to minimise the risk of health problems and improve the taste of the water as, depending on the filter system, it is also able to remove chlorine almost completely from the water.

Regardless of whether you opt for an activated carbon filter, a ceramic filter or UV light filter, investing in a solid treatment system ensures the necessary safety. For detailed information on water treatment in motorhomes, including tips on choosing the right filter system and maintenance, visit our comprehensive guide. Here you will find valuable information to help you ensure the water quality in your home on wheels.

Dealing with grey and black water

The correct disposal of grey and black water is a critical aspect of motorhome travel, both for the environment and for public health. Here are the most important points to bear in mind when disposing of grey and black water:

Step-by-step guide to filling the tank safely

  1. Only empty your tanks at designated disposal stations.

  2. Make sure to dispose of grey and black water separately if the disposal point provides separate systems for this.

  3. Wear protective gloves and avoid direct contact with waste water. Ensure that your hands and the equipment involved are thoroughly cleaned after disposal.

  4. Use separate, labelled hoses for the disposal of black water that are not used for fresh water to avoid cross-contamination.

  5. Keep the area around the disposal station clean and prevent waste water from spilling onto the ground.

  6. Find out about local regulations on wastewater disposal, as these can vary from place to place.

  7. Store waste water disposal equipment separately from fresh water equipment to prevent mixing.

  8. Use biodegradable chemicals in your toilet and wastewater system, which are less harmful to the environment.

Cleaning the fresh water tank

Regular maintenance and cleaning of the water tank in your motorhome is crucial to ensure the water quality and keep the system free from bacteria and deposits.

Ideally, you should clean your motorhome's water tank at least twice a year, once at the beginning of the season and once at the end. However, if you are frequently on the road or travelling in warmer climates where bacterial growth occurs more quickly, you should clean the tank more often.

You can use special tank cleaning agents from specialist retailers to clean and disinfect the water tank. These are designed to thoroughly clean the tank and eliminate germs. Alternatively, household products such as chlorine bleach or vinegar can be used, whereby you should pay close attention to the recommended mixing ratios to prevent material damage and ensure effective cleaning.

When using cleaning agents, you must ensure that they are approved for use in drinking water systems and do not leave any harmful residues. You should also always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the cleaning products you choose and the specific instructions for your motorhome.

Tank cleaning step by step

  • Empty: First drain the entire contents of the water tank and rinse it with clear water to remove any loose dirt.

  • Add detergent: Then fill the tank with a mixture of water and the detergent. If using chlorine bleach, use about 250 ml per 100 litres of tank contents.

  • Leave to take effect: Leave the cleaning solution to work for several hours; for heavier soiling, even overnight.

  • Rinse through: Rinse the tank several times with clean water until you can no longer smell the cleaning agent.

  • Clean the pipes: Don't forget to also run the water pipes through to clean the entire system. If a water filter is installed in the system, remove it beforehand.

  • Final test: After cleaning, test the water quality to ensure that there are no residues of cleaning agents in the water.

Legal aspects and responsibility

The regulations on drawing water from natural springs or public taps can vary greatly. In some regions, filling up with water is allowed without authorisation, while elsewhere it is subject to strict restrictions or may cost a fee.

Before you fill up with water, find out about the local regulations. This can be done via official tourism websites, local authorities or special travel apps. Complying with these rules is not only a sign of respect for the country and its inhabitants, but also avoids possible penalties.

As far as environmental aspects are concerned, every traveller has a certain responsibility towards the environment. Sustainable practices include filling up and disposing of water responsibly, using environmentally friendly cleaning products and disinfectants and minimising water consumption overall. The use of natural resources should also always be handled with care in order to protect ecosystems and ensure the availability of clean water for the future.

FAQs - Fill up with water on the go

1. Public Water Fountains and Taps

Many cities, towns, and rest areas in Australia have public water fountains or taps where you can refill your water bottles or containers.

  • Check public parks, beaches, playgrounds, and outdoor activity areas.
  • Apps like CamperMate, WikiCamps, or Aussie Water Stations can help you locate these spots easily.
2. Rest Stops and Roadhouses
  • Along highways, you’ll find rest stops that often have free or low-cost drinking water taps.
  • Some roadhouses (common in rural areas) offer water refills, but they may charge a small fee.
  • Look for signage indicating potable water availability.
3. Campgrounds and Caravan Parks
  • Most campgrounds and caravan parks provide drinking water for guests.
  • Some even allow non-guests to fill up for a small fee.
  • Apps like WikiCamps and Park4Night provide user reviews on water quality at campgrounds.
4. National Parks
  • Visitor centers and some campsites within national parks often have drinking water facilities.
  • However, not all national parks provide potable water, so it’s best to check beforehand.
5. Fuel Stations and Service Areas
  • Many petrol stations and service areas have taps for drinking water.
  • It's worth asking at the counter if you don’t see a tap outside.
6. Supermarkets and Shops
  • In remote areas or if public water sources are scarce, you can purchase bottled water from supermarkets or local shops.
  • Some grocery stores also have refill stations for large water containers.
7. Water Refilling Stations
  • Cities and towns often have dedicated water refilling stations, which are part of initiatives to reduce plastic waste.
  • Apps like WaterMap, Aussie Water Stations, or even Google Maps can help you locate these.
Apps to Help You Find Drinking Water:
  1. CamperMate: Lists rest stops, water refill points, and camping facilities.
  2. WikiCamps Australia: User-generated reviews for water availability at campgrounds and rest stops.
  3. Aussie Water Stations: Dedicated to finding refill stations across Australia.
  4. Google Maps: Search for "water refill stations near me" or "public drinking fountains."

Check that the water source is labelled as drinking water. Use a water filter to remove possible impurities. It is also advisable to test the water before first use, especially with new sources.

You should always have a clean hose that is only used for drinking water, connection adapters for different taps and a water filter.

Clean your water tank at least twice a year or more often if you are travelling regularly. Empty the tank, fill it with a cleaning solution, leave it to soak in and rinse thoroughly several times.

Avoid laying the filling hose on the floor and use separate hoses for fresh water and waste water. Also make sure that all connections are clean and disinfect them regularly.