Gas bottles on the Continent

[vectisrambler]

We are about to embark on a year long caravan trip to Europe. Normally, our gas use is low and even after 10 weeks we do not use more than 6kg. However, this trip we will need to replenish the caravan gas while away.

Do memebers have any recommendations for which brand of gas to use in, say, France Spain or Portugal this winter? Is it widely available and are the connector hoses for the fixed 30mb regulator also easily obtained?

We carry a Camping Gas 907 as a back up but it is too expensive to use full time. Any advice would be welcome.

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hi Vectris,

If you are visiting several different countries then you will discover that each country has its own spread of suppliers, and generally the valve connections are different So there is little uniformity.

The one exception is Camping Gaz. The gas is widely available, and as you already have the regulator, the hassle will be minimised. Although the gas may cost more, the simplicity of not having to juggle with changing regulators or pig-tails has a strong attraction, especially as you say you use only a small amount of gas.

Alternatively, you might consider fitting a fixed tank, which may be filled at some petrol filling stations, the down side is you need to know where you can get it refilled. for my money I'd stop with Camping Gaz

 

[emmitdb]

Hi Vectisrambler,

I'm envious of your plans however,

Until quite recently the subject of buying gas bottles in France and Spain was dogged by needing to know which reg you need, what size adaptor etc but that has been to some extent helped by a 'new' player on the block.

You can buy/hire a bottle from any Intermarche (large supermarket chain) or bricomarche (DIY) These stores are as well known in France as any of our big supermarket chains.

The bottles come in 10kgs capacity and are either butane or propane. The beauty for us is that the exit point for both bottles is the same as the dumpy 4.5kgs Calaor used in this country.

The price is good and the deposit is only 5Euros. You can hand it back when you leave the country (if empty) or keep it for next time.

For Spain, Repsol who have squillions of garages in the country also sell/hire 6kgs bottles. The deposit is 20 Euros but the gas is less than

 

[vectisrambler]

Thanks for the advice. We have been camping and caravanning in Europe for nearly 40 years but this will be our first long trip to include a winter, so your input is welcome.