Refillable gas bottles are a practical solution for anyone traveling with a motorhome, camper or caravan. In principle, it is a refillable gas cylinder, but with a few extras. It not only offers more flexibility, but also a significant increase in safety - and therefore represents a real step forward compared to conventional gas cylinders.
Multivalves: the technology behind the refillable gas bottle
What distinguishes the gas cylinder? The multivalves. It acts as a versatile safety element and ensures particularly reliable and user-friendly handling of the gas cylinder.
- Safety valve: If the pressure in the cylinder rises to 27 bar, the gas is released in a controlled manner
- Filling stop valve: The cylinder stops automatically when it is 80% full - this protects against overfilling and ensures that there is enough space for expansion
- Non-return valve: Prevents gas from escaping again during filling
- Fill level indicator: A simple float always shows you how much gas is left in the bottle
However, refillable gas bottles are not intended for mobile use such as barbecues. They must be permanently installed in the vehicle.
Refillable gas bottle vs. gas tank bottle: what's the difference?
With a refillable gas bottle, you are no longer dependent on exchange stations. You can refill at any time at an LPG filling station and avoid the inconvenience of having to dispense residual gas when exchanging gas cylinders. You are also independent of opening hours and can refill gas anywhere in Europe. A clear advantage over traditional gas cylinders!
Refillable gas bottle: sizes and capacities
In contrast to exchangeable gas cylinders, where the weight counts, the volume of gas cylinders is given in liters. For example:
- A 30-liter refillable gas bottle holds about 24 liters of LPG, which corresponds to about 12.2 kg
- Depending on the model, there are also 5 kg, 11 kg or 14 kg variants
Model |
100% volume |
80% volume |
Volume in kilograms |
CAMPKO® steel 15 | 15 | 12 | 6,11 |
CAMPKO® steel 22 | 22 | 17,6 | 8,96 |
CAMPKO® steel 30 | 30 | 24 | 12,22 |
CAMPKO® steel 36 | 36 | 28,8 | 14,66 |
CAMPKO® composite 12.7 | 12,7 | 10,16 | 5,17 |
CAMPKO® composite 18.2 | 18,2 | 14,56 | 7,41 |
CAMPKO® composite 24.4 | 24,4 | 19,52 | 9,94 |
Alugas TRAVELMate 27 | 27 | 21,6 | 10,99 |
Alugas TRAVELMate 33 | 33 | 26,4 | 13,44 |
How to fill your refillable gas bottle correctly
Filling a gas cylinder is straightforward. There are two options:
- Direct refueling: Use a direct refueling adapter or an LPG filling hose
- Simply connect the adapter to the filling station and the cylinder and you're ready to go.
Important: Always use only certified ECE 67R-01 filling hoses and valves for safe filling.
The best refillable gas bottle brands
Brands such as CAMPKO®, Alugas TRAVELMate, Gaslow and Wynen are known for their quality. When buying, make sure that the cylinder and multivalves are homologated and have passed safety tests.
Tips before buying
- Space check: Check the dimensions of your gas locker! Refillable gas bottles are available in different sizes, from 370 mm to 688 mm
- Compatibility: Make sure you have the right accessories such as brackets and adapters to mount the cylinder securely
Installing the refillable gas bottle: A professional is needed
Installing a gas cylinder does not belong in the DIY category. Specialist companies are familiar with the safety standards and guarantee that all regulations are adhered to - including the leak test. So you're always on the safe side.
Conclusion: More independence on the road
With a refillable gas bottle, you are more flexible and independent - and you can do so safely. Whether you are on long journeys in Europe or simply want to enjoy the convenience of a refillable cylinder, the gas cylinder makes it possible.