12 Tips for Saving Money on Gas
We all have our ways of coping with the recent rise in gas prices. Some of us just grumble and look pissed off as we fill up our tank. Others drive all over town, looking for cheaper gas, but spending more money than they save in the process. And then some of us simply stopped driving.
Hate it all you want, but there’s nothing you can do about the out-of-control gas prices. There are, however, some important tips that can significantly help with fuel-efficiency. And although TreasureTrainer is usually more concerned with ways to make money, we figure saving is just as good...
- Look for competition! This applies in towns, but even more so on the highway. If you’re on a road-trip, look for the exit signs that have the logos of multiple gas stations. Exit-areas with only one gas station basically have a monopoly on gas for that 30-mile strectch of freeway. Competition often makes the difference of 20 cents per gallon. Again, if you’re in town, you may find that gas stations across the road from each other tend to be slightly cheaper.
- Try sites like Gasbuddy.com to find the cheapest gas in your area.
- Easy on the air. Air conditioners are big gas guzzlers, so if it’s not too hot out, roll down the windows, or better yet – use the vents. The vents take air from the outside so it doesn’t affect gas consumption. It’s also important to note, that if you’re going at highway speeds, open windows create a lot of drag. At high speeds, it’s usually cheaper to use the air conditioner.
- Empty out your car. If you like to store a bunch of unnecessary junk in your trunk - get rid of it! It’s weighing you down and decreasing your fuel-efficiency.
- Drive smooth and slow down! A lead foot will lead to an empty wallet at the pumps. I know you like to show everyone how cool you are, but being broke is not cool. Heavy acceleration will use more gas, and driving fast tends to use more gas than driving the same distance at a slower rate. If you have it, use cruise control to keep your acceleration constant.
- Check your tires. Make sure your tires aren’t under-inflated, as this will use more energy and gas.
The rest of these are no-brainers…
- Research the quickest route beforehand.
- Try public transportation!
- Can you carpool?
- Avoid rush hour – stop and go traffic is devastating to your wallet.
- Combine trips when you can.
- Don’t let your car idle.
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