Open highway representing planning fuel stops on a long road trip

Planning Refuel Stops on a Road Trip: A Simple Method

February 23, 2026 10 min read

Quick Summary Fuel-stop planning is easier when you separate trip cost from trip logistics. Cost is based on total gallons used and fuel price. Logistics is based on your realistic range on a tank, plus a buffer for conditions that reduce MPG.

Start with estimated range on a tank: usable gallons × real-world MPG.
Plan stops using a buffer so you are not forced to run the tank extremely low.
Then estimate cost using total trip fuel use (distance ÷ MPG).

What We Know (Sourced)

EPA notes that standardized fuel economy values are designed for comparisons and that real-world results vary with factors like speed, traffic, temperature, load, and accessory use. DOE fuel economy guidance also explains that driver behavior and maintenance can change fuel consumption.

That means fuel-stop planning should use a realistic MPG value and a buffer, especially in winter or at high speeds.

Step-by-Step Stop Planning

Estimate your realistic MPG for the trip (use your own logs if possible). Related: highway vs city MPG.
Compute your estimated range on a tank. Related: range on a tank.
Choose a buffer so you do not plan to arrive at a station nearly empty.
Divide the route into segments shorter than your buffered range, and identify candidate stations for each segment.
Re-check after conditions change (detours, weather, strong headwinds, heavy cargo).

Practical tip: If you're driving in winter, include the winter MPG penalty as part of your buffer. Related: fuel economy in cold weather.

Adjusting for Conditions (Speed, Weather, Load)

Stop planning should anticipate the most common MPG-reducing conditions:

Higher speeds (more aerodynamic drag). Related: speed and fuel economy.
Cold weather (warm-up losses and rolling resistance). Related: cold weather MPG.
Roof cargo (drag). Related: roof racks and MPG.

Pairing Stop Planning With Cost

Stop planning answers "where do I refuel?" Cost planning answers "how much will the trip cost?" These use different math:

Total trip fuel used: distance ÷ MPG
Total trip cost: gallons used × $/gal

Related: road trip fuel cost and cost to fill up.

Want total trip cost too?

Estimate fuel needed and total cost using distance, MPG, and fuel price.

Try the Fuel Cost Calculator

What's Next

Before you go: check tire pressure and address warning lights so you don't lose range unexpectedly. Related: maintenance checklist.
During the trip: monitor your trip MPG and update stop spacing if conditions change.
After the trip: log actual MPG so your next trip plan is more accurate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I plan stops based on EPA Highway MPG?

EPA Highway MPG can be a starting point, but your real-world MPG may differ with speed, terrain, temperature, and load. EPA notes label values are standardized comparisons and real-world results vary with conditions.

How big should my buffer be?

There is no single right number. Use a larger buffer on remote routes, in winter, and when you expect higher-speed driving that reduces MPG.

Does this approach work for EV charging stops too?

Yes, with different inputs. EV planning uses battery energy and kWh/100 miles, and winter range can drop. Related: EV range in cold weather.