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If you travel on the road and utilize a propane tank in your RV, you’re likely to encounter some unknown territory if you haven’t done your homework. While propane is one of the most widely used sources of fuel for campers and travelers, there are still some things to be aware of to ensure everything goes smoothly. There are many benefits in using propane, and when you have familiarized yourself with its features and understand the safety considerations you should make, it can be such a useful tool to have on the road. 

The Many Benefits of Using Propane

If you’re a camper who has ever needed heat or a way to cook without a campfire, you have likely enjoyed the benefit of packing propane for your trip. It can be used in canisters for many different cooktops and stoves, along with other methods of heating. 

In an RV, it can be used for cooking and heating as well as the opposite - refrigeration or using an air conditioner. Propane hookups are usually available in most modern models of RVs for you to use with ease. Some RVs can use propane to run appliances or electric outlets, but you’ll want to keep a close eye on usage. The good news about that however, is that propane refill tanks are readily available in major home improvement stores, and many gas stations. You can find propane near Mesquite, NV at Virgin Valley Food Mart. For RV-ers out on the road, stop somewhere RV friendly to refuel your rig along with your propane for the rest of your journey. 

Safely Using Propane

Most people are aware of the safety precautions that are necessary to have with any kind of fuel, and propane is no different. It is important to store your propane tanks appropriately to prevent accidents. Propane tanks need to be stored outside of your RV when driving, and should not be used while the vehicle is traveling either. Many RVs are already equipped with a tank and have proper storage built-in for convenience. 

While the tank itself should be in a safe place, you’ll want to make sure you are aware of the related items to your tank. There are different kinds of hookups for your propane, and maintaining repairs for these parts are just as important as the tank itself. The regulator, for instance, may need to be tested to ensure there are no leaks in the hose. You would be able to smell a propane leak, but to be safe, you should regularly test to be sure. You can put a mixture of soap and water on the connection point and look for bubbles to emerge. If you see bubbles start to form in that spot, that’s a sign you have a leak. 

When traveling with any kind of fuel in tow, just take every precaution you can to ensure you have no surprises. Taking the time to be prepared and confident your tank and connections are in good condition can save you time and money in surprise repairs later on. Leaks can be dangerous, so if you suspect you have a propane leak, it is important to have a professional take a look right away. 

Familiarize Yourself with the Tank Gauge

One way to keep tabs on things on a regular basis is to know and understand your propane tank gauge. Many tanks which are built into RVs will have a gauge already attached to them, but some types will require you to add a gauge to your tank. Regularly watching and checking your gauge can help you better understand your usage and keep you mindful of what you are using propane for during your trip. 

Knowing Where to Get a Refill

If you are dependent on propane for anything during your trip, it is important to map out the places you can get a refill before you travel. You’ll need to keep in mind the route you’ll take and what hours you’ll be on the road or needing to stop. Consider the store hours in your planning, and remember some home improvement stores may be closed in the evenings. Be sure you can fuel up your vehicle in an RV friendly gas station like Virgin Valley Food Mart where you can also refill propane during your stop. 

When to Replace Your Tank

If you are using small tanks that require an exchange of the tank itself rather than a refill, you won’t necessarily need to know about the recertification process. For propane tanks which require recertification, that happens every 10 years. There are some other rules however, about inspection, and a visual inspection is required every five years. Although these are the regulations according to the DOT, each state has its own specific set of rules that might apply. Make sure you are aware of the regulations in the state you’re in (or planning to be in) to double-check your supplies before heading out. 

If you’re traveling with propane and plan to use it for an upcoming trip this summer, just be safe! Make sure you are prepared in all the best ways to make sure you can enjoy some stress-free travel. If you’re passing through Utah to Southern Nevada, stop into Virgin Valley Food Mart in Mesquite! At our gas station, you’ll have plenty of space for your RV and even a place to park if you want to explore. Get propane refills, ice, snacks, beverages, and a great location near casinos and hotels. Follow us on Facebook to see more about our facilities and what we offer for travelers on their way to Las Vegas or Zion. We’ll feature helpful tips for travelers and ways to have fun on the road!


https://www.rvtravel.com/how-often-do-you-have-to-re-certify-propane-tanks/
https://www.tripsavvy.com/rving-guide-to-propane-2912590
https://rvshare.com/blog/the-ultimate-rv-propane-tank-guide-read-this-before-fixing-or-buying/

The automotive industry is always changing and expanding, with scientific and industrial advancements making things more efficient or sometimes making things cleaner. Most typical cars on the road will operate using gas-powered engines, but there are quite a few vehicles for the road which are diesel-powered.

Virgin Valley Fuel Mart provides fuel for both gas-powered vehicles as well as diesel-powered vehicles traveling through the Mesquite area, and we’ll give a quick overview of the differences between these two types of fuel and how they are used in current practice.

Engines Operate Differently

One important thing to understand about the types of fuel they need is that different types of engines require different kinds of fuel. Combustion engines - both diesel and gas engines work through combustion, but have a different method of processing the fuel. It is important to remember that these two types of fuels are not interchangeable in your car, or cannot be chosen based on cost. The specific fuel for your vehicle should be used in your car - your engine is meant for one or the other. Economically, diesel fuel provides an option that is less difficult to refine, making that process lesser.

To put in the simplest way, gasoline is thinner than diesel fuel. Diesel is more like the consistency of oil. If you put gasoline in your diesel engine by accident, make sure you get it to a repair shop to drain it out. The moment you start up your vehicle, damage can be done, so it is important to catch the error before starting up the car if at all possible.

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

Generally diesel fuel and diesel engines get better mileage than gas-powered. Many of our recent technological advances are helping make progress with diesel fuel emissions. With modern technology, drivers are better able to monitor the status of their emissions and in turn have better control over its effects.

Often, the cleanliness of the fuel comes into play and can play a role in the levels of emissions. Using quality fuel from brands you know and trust will be helpful in keeping your engine running clean. 76 fuel is a well-respected brand and has stood behind the quality of their products for many years. When fueling at a 76 station, you can be sure you are getting top quality fuel for your vehicle. Virgin Valley Food Mart pumps 76 gas in Mesquite, and is the perfect place to stop if you are in need of a place to park or to fill up on diesel fuel.

Main Uses of Diesel

Many of the larger, heavier vehicles will run on diesel fuel, like firetrucks, busses, major industrial equipment, boats, and more. Many of our core industries rely on diesel fuel to keep their operations going - including anything that requires shipment of goods, like farmers or construction crews. Shipping of all kinds, freight, and other transport services like trains also use diesel fuel to power their operations.

Another reason diesel fuel is used for many of these important industries throughout the country is that the fuel is less flammable than gas and may not explode as easily under certain conditions. When electricity fails or feeds for electricity go down, as with some remote areas, there can be diesel-powered generators in place to be able to generate electricity for the nearby areas. Also, some more remote and smaller locations, as with Alaska, run their electricity solely on diesel generators. Many places of importance like hospitals or other similar kinds of facilities might have diesel generators present in case of a power emergency as well.

Cars Running on Diesel

Just as there are many different uses for diesel fuel that you may not have know about previously, there are many different kinds of cars that you seen out on the road that run on diesel fuel, but you may not have guessed.

Trucks
The pickup trucks with an obvious level of power (just by looking at them you know) definitely run on diesel. The large models, like the Dogde Ram 2500 or 3500 will have diesel engines, like many of the big rig trucks you’ll find at the top American car manufacturers. Big trucks are part of the identity of the brand. It is understandable for these kinds of large vehicles to run on diesel as compared to the industrial machines or farming equipment that would require diesel.

Some little known luxury brands offer alternative vehicles with a diesel engine option. Here are some luxury automakers who make diesel-friendly vehicle choices:

Mercedes
Many European carmakers would be more likely to offer a diesel option in their vehicles, and Mercedes offers diesel for both their M-Class and GL-Class sedans.

Jaguar
With most of the luxury brands boasting the fuel economy of their diesel models, Jaguar is no different. They offermany models of vehicles with the option for an upgrade to a diesel engine.

Along with Range Rover and BMW, many of the luxury sedans and small to mid-size SUVs offer options for diesel engines. Many other automakers in more compact or standard sized vehicles like Chevrolet, Volkswagen, or Jeep also have plenty of models in their fleet that run on diesel powered engines as well.
  Do you operate a vehicle that runs on diesel fuel? For those traveling in an RV through Southern Utah and into Las Vegas, make sure to stop at Virgin Valley Food Mart during your trip. Our facilities are clean and well-maintained, but we offer much more than just our cleanliness. Our lot is the perfect place to stop and park as well as refuel for your journey ahead. Our food mart is stocked with lots of food, snacks, beverages, ice, and more to keep you sustained on the road. You can also fill up on propane while visiting, or make your way across the street to the Virgin River Casino for some fun.

Through our Facebook page and blog, Virgin Valley Food Mart has been sharing some tips, advice, and things that might help our customers along their journey. Our articles feature interesting topics like the history of 76 fuel, to some of the sights to see near our location that you might have overlooked. Be sure to check out the highlights from our previous year and learn a few new tips for RV owners or anyone traveling through Mesquite, NV.

How to Find and Use a Gas Station with your Fifth Wheel or RV

For those who aren’t entirely comfortable with maneuvering strange spaces in a vehicle as large as an RV, it is very important to take some precautions before heading out for a trip in your RV. For new RV owners as well, it can be very worth the time it takes to review some locations for fueling and parking to stay overnight and be sure it is “RV-friendly.” You’ll be looking for large open lots with plenty of room to enter and exit the spaces. The gas station at Virgin Valley Food Mart leaves RV drivers with plenty of space in the fueling area. We also offer propane and plenty of snacks and beverages to help fuel the rest of your journey.

Learn more about finding RV-friendly gas stations

Use 76 Gas Stations for Quality Fuel

It is important to treat your refueling as you do other smart choices in your life like when selecting restaurants to eat at or places to buy your food. Some gas stations do not have equal products, and it depends largely upon the quality of the fuel and how much it affects your vehicle’s performance over time. Sticking with a station like 76 whenever possible allows you to have peace of mind in the quality of their products.

Learn about how 76 stations only distribute quality fuel

History of the 76 Gas Station

76 gas station have existed in the US since the 30s. The recognizable branding of the orange antennae ball was popularized and made the gas station memorable. Beyond their marketing ideas, 76 stations have always promoted that you will find quality synonymous with the brand itself. They aim to be consisted with their products to allow their customers to rely on them and trust what they have to offer. It is true that 76 gasoline is PRO clean fuel, the best that you can use in your vehicle.

Learn more about the history of 76 stations and how they came to be

Exploring Nevada: Sights Near Mesquite, NV

Just a short drive from the lights of Las Vegas you’ll find many of natures desert beauties, and the sights near our location in Mesquite, NV provide much to see. Two of the most popular attractions to visit are Gold Butte and Whitney Pockets. There you’ll witness incredible rock formations and splashes of color spanning the 360,000 acres of Gold Butte. Whitney Pockets will display a colorful expanse of sandstone in reds, yellows, and whites to contrast the blue desert sky up above. You can study the fissures created in the sandstone to develop caverns and intricate carvings and petroglyphs of the past.

Learn more about the landscape near Mesquite, NV

Our Top RV Travel Tips

If you are new to operating and living in your RV for a period of time, there are some tips and advice to consider to make things easier in the long run. While you are traveling, make sure you have a plan to keep things secure that are loose in the cabin. While you might plan to drive down normal, paved roads and highways, you could encounter some bumps in the road, and they can be more jarring than you’d expect at times. Another important thing to remember before setting out on your trip would be making a list or map marking all the places you will stop to refuel or rest. Having this plan ahead of time allows you to relax and think ahead during the drive.

Learn more about how to best prep yourself for a road trip in your RV

Things to Do Near Mesquite, NV

The area surrounding Mesquite and Mesquite itself has a lot to offer visitors either passing through or staying for length of time. There are plenty of beautiful golf courses that you can experience along with plenty of other natural and outdoor activities like hiking through the BLM land at Gold Butte. The Virgin River Hotel & Casino as well as the Eureka Casino offer some entertainment with friendly staff and top rated games as well as a place to stay. If you’re traveling by RV and need an affordable place to stop near Las Vegas, Virgin Valley Food Mart has parking available as well as Wifi for guest’s use.

Learn about other things to do near Mesquite, NV

 

Things You Never Knew About Gas & Gas Stations

Most of us have grown up with gas stations being on most major street corners, especially in larger cities. One would think that there are more gas stations in the country now than compared to the 1920s, but in fact there were far more stations back then. The reasoning goes back to the capabilities of the cars being manufactured, so then a car would not be able to get as far before needing to refuel as it does now. Another fun fact related to gas stations is that the ubiquitous KFC got its true start as a service station and offering food to the fuel patrons.

Learn more about how gas stations have progressed over time

Why are Convenience Stores Getting More Popular?

Convenience stores are meant to provide convenience for people throughout cities and traveling through towns. It’s no wonder they are rising in popularity as many people are conscious of making efficient choices with some shopping habits. Many people know that a convenience store will have limited selection for a variety of types of products, so while you’ll likely find what you need, you won’t have to walk very far or sift through many different types of things. Most of the items you’ll find at a convenience store will be sustenance like food and beverages, to things that are more like necessities - like engine oil, toiletries, and things that you might need at any time.

Read more about how convenience stores have risen in popularity over the recent years

You can always find the perfect place to stop when traveling between Las Vegas and Salt Lake City at Virgin Valley Food Mart. You’ll have plenty of space to get your vehicle into the area as well as enjoy the wifi while you stay. Check us out on Facebook or on our blog to learn more about the area and some things to do while visiting.

Surely, convenience is key for motorists and those traveling on the road. Everyone driving longer distances will need to stop and fuel up at the very least during their trip, and they likely stop at a location which serves their main needs. Typically convenience stores offer a perfect solution to the motorist in transit: somewhere to fuel up, park, get ice, supplies, food, or beverages, along with many other amenities or perks of the location. In recent years, convenience stores have risen in popularity with consumers, with plenty of reasons to cite.

Simply Convenience

It’s actually in the name! C-stores are designed and focused on providing convenience for their customers or consumers. Fuel is a necessity when you are traveling out on the road, and stopping for fuel is part of that necessity. Convenience stores offer the traveler a one-stop shop for other items they might also want while traveling. To make the most efficient use of your time spent filling up your tank, you can visit the store inside to stock up on snacks and supplies for the road. It makes a big difference when you are short on time and need to maximize each stop you make while traveling. If you can stop, fuel up, get all the supplies you might need while also allowing the option of parking to stay overnight, that’s the option most likely chosen. Gas stations that only offer fuel are likely not the first choice for many long distance travelers.

Smaller Selection is Time Saving

Another way convenience stores provide a smart and preferred experience is how economically you can spend your time. When you are out on the road, typically the things you purchase to eat on the road are not things that you need to prepare. So, you likely would not need the variety in selection of items as you do at the grocery store, just a few options to cover your bases should suit most people’s needs. The smaller selection of choices for snacks or beverages allows you to move quickly in to make your purchases and back out to continue your travels. From the proximity of the pumps or parking spots to the inside shop counter, it allows for a fast and easy transaction for all parties involved. For this reason, convenience stores are a popular choice for travelers - it is one of the quickest transaction times on average.

You Can Find Them Everywhere

Following the trend of making it easy for the customer, another reason so many people make their stop at a convenience store is because they are prevalent. As they have become more in-demand, you’ll likely see more of them as time goes on since they have become such a normal or expected part of travel routines. As the US highways system was put in place and expanded, the need or demand for convenience stores grew with it.
People are typically familiar with the features and they are so prevalent in fact, that there are close to 155,000 convenience stores across the US. It certainly provides some measure of reliability knowing that many of the all-important supplies we require while traveling will be found in most cities. Beyond travelers, convenience stores in larger urban settings are also popular as a quick stop for groceries or other supplies.

Contributing to a Local Business

Chances are, depending on the city or region you visit, you might be supporting a local business by stopping at a convenience store and gas station. Often, these local c-stores in cities all across the country are owned and operated by a single proprietor or family-owned. Instead of visiting a large chain store, you might be contributing directly to the local economy and supporting a small locally-owned establishment. If you’re visiting a convenience store nearby some other local shops or entertainment venues, consider planning it into your stop! You can incorporate some local sight-seeing and lend additional support to the community.

Amenities at Your Service

At Virgin Valley Food Mart, we can provide our customers with much more than just fuel. Our location serves as the perfect place to park and stay with us if you’re driving an RV or trailer. Our location is right across the street from plenty of entertainment at the casinos as well as additional dining options. You can stock up on snacks and food from the food mart before heading back out on the road. If you plan on doing sight seeing, check in with us to learn about some of the local highlights. You might visit Whitney Peaks or Gold Butte to see some of natures splendors, or just head over to the Mesquite Visitor’s Center to learn about the history of the area along with memorabilia.

At our location, you can enjoy free wifi while visiting, and we have pricing for your stay by the hour, the day, or the week depending on how long you’ve planned your stay. Our facility even offers propane for purchase, so you’ll be covered on all fronts for your trip. If you’re heading out camping you can stock up on ice and any other campfire necessities at the food mart. With the growing number of convenience stores around the country, its a smart idea as a traveler to become familiar with some of your favorite spots. The most convenient location in between Nevada and Utah is Virgin Valley Food Mart in Mesquite, NV. Be sure to stop in our store while you’re on the road traveling to or from Las Vegas.

The holiday season has arrived, starting with many people’s favorite meal of the year at Thanksgiving. If you’re traveling through the Mesquite, NV area make sure to stop at Virgin Valley Food Mart. You can park at our location if you’re towing a fifth wheel or traveling by RV and enjoy some of the things the local area has to offer. Members of the Mesquite community have organized some great events to participate in your travel plans include Southern Utah or Southern Nevada. Here are some events and upcoming community efforts to look out for near Mesquite, NV:

History of the Area

https://www.mesquitenv.gov/events/community-thanksgiving-dinner
https://mesquitenv.pastperfectonline.com/randomimages
https://www.mesquitenv.gov/locations/virgin-valley-heritage-museum

The City of Mesquite has organized a local Community Thanksgiving Dinner. It is an annual event the city puts on at the Senior Center free of charge for guests. It is a generous and kind gesture for the City to host a meal for the community. They also promote the history of the area and encourages exploration of the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum. The museum is one of the top things to do in the area of Mesquite and also provides a large selection of material you can browse in their online catalog. It is a great way to enrich your understanding of the community as you travel through or stay to enjoy some of the natural beauty of the area.
 

Small Business Saturday

https://www.mesquitenv.gov/events/small-business-saturday

If you’re in the Mesquite area the weekend of the 24th, don’t miss your chance to participate in Small Business Saturday. The Mesquite community encourages the growth of new small businesses and promotes uniqueness in business to help communities innovate. Stop in to a few local stores that Saturday and visit Virgin Valley Food Mart for snacks, ice, beer, or gas for your trip ahead or during your stay. You can also stop by the local Mesquite Chamber of Commerce to learn about shopping and to receive a map (between 8-10am). You can use this opportunity to check some holiday shopping off your list.
 

Upcoming: Parade of Lights Food Drive

https://www.mesquitenv.gov/events/mesquite-parade-of-lights-food-drive
https://chamberorganizer.com/mesquitenv/docs/Parade_of_Lights_2018.pdf

December 5th you can experience something unique while giving back to the community with the annual Parade of Lights Food Drive in Mesquite. You can join the local community in the fun of the parade - just bring out your chairs and some blankets to keep you warm. If you plan ahead for your trip, make sure to bring along some cans of food for donation to the drive. The proceeds will be donated to The Salvation Army and the Virgin Valley Food Bank. The parade will feature all kinds of creations, all of them lighted to create a spectacle that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate the area and local events.

You can also drop off a donation of canned food to the Mesquite Recreation Center anytime in the Front Lobby of the building in their donation boxes. If you’re just passing through and want to give back, this is the perfect opportunity.

St George for Shows

Dicken’s Christmas Festival
https://dickenschristmasfestival.com

Experience 19th Century London in Southern Utah at the Dicken’s Christmas Festival. You’ll see actors in full character and costume throughout the area and enjoy old shops and browse through unique wares and gifts. If you’re traveling with kids, they can even meet Father Christmas during the festival.
 
There are musical performances scattered through the “streets” and you might catch a part of “mini-productions” of both Scrooge and Oliver Twist. Get in the Christmas Spirit with a visit to Dicken’s Christmas Festival November 28 - December 1. The festival is only a short drive from Mesquite to St. George, where you’ll find many other activates and local attractions. If you’re traveling through the area this season, make sure plan ahead and make a stop at the festival.

Tuacahn Theater
https://www.tuacahn.org/online/fairytale

As an alternative to a more traditional approach to getting in the holiday spirit with Dickens, visit Tuachan Amphitheater in Ivins, UT for a new style of Christmas. If you’re making your way south to Mesquite and passing through St. George, you might want to make a stop over to Ivins to catch this unique show. Fairy Tale Christmas is told through the lens of the fairy tale villains of the stories we all know so well, as they capture Santa and attempt to get rid of happily ever afters. The show is based on a book which became a hit musical by M. Scott McLean and Michael McLean. If you and your family are looking for something that is not so typical for a holiday themed show, this is the perfect option. The show begins November 29th and runs until December 22nd, so take the time to make plans for your holiday travel and enjoy some unique experiences along the way.


With the holidays on our doorstep, there are so many efforts in the community to bring people together and be generous with their giving spirits. The Mesquite area has so many great efforts and events to bring the local community together or to give to those in need each year, and it is a wonderful way to participate this year while traveling on the road. If your travels will bring you through Mesquite, make sure to stop at Virgin Valley Food Mart for a great place to park and stay for a while or to stop in for something to eat or drink while continuing your journey on the road. Out 76 gas station will give the RV drivers plenty of space for an easy entrance and exit, so make sure to visit our convenience store while traveling in Mesquite.