Gas prices have gone up again and it’s time to be even more careful with your expenses. Here are eight ways to spend less on gas and be more cost-efficient when it comes to commuting.
Consider your transportation options first.
Don’t let driving be your default mode of transportation. Consider your other options first.
Can you walk or bike to your destination?
Is there public transportation that can take you there? Can you carpool with other people?
Try to think with cost savings in mind and you’ll find that driving your own car may not always be the best option if you’e trying to save money.
Get on the road with a purpose.
If you’ve decided to take your car, plan your trip carefully and avoid unnecessary trips.
Schedule your errands in one day and plan out the most efficient route to save on trips and mileage.
If you need to go a specific store, make sure they’re open or that they have what you need. You can also try calling first to check if they deliver. Avoid traveling during rush hour or peak times to lessen the time you’ll spend in traffic.
Make sure your car is in good condition.
Keeping your car properly tuned up can help you save on gas.
Check your car to make sure everything is working fine.
Check tire pressure, axles, springs, the suspension and chassis parts.
Make sure the air filter isn’t clogged. Keeping your air filter clean can improve your gas mileage by as much as 10%. Go for energy-conserving motor oil, too.
If your car is working properly, the engine won’t need to work harder than it should.
Remove the unnecessary.
If you don’t really need them, remove bike racks or vinyl tops to avoid air drag that can be a stress on your car engine.
Remove extra weights if possible. Take out unnecessary stuff you have in your trunk.
Extra weight means more work for your engine, which burns more gas.
If you can go without air conditioning, do it. Roll down windows if you have to. Reducing air conditioning can reduce gas consumption.
Drive carefully.
Aside from keeping you safe, driving steadily can help with your gas consumption, too.
Drive within speed limits.
Avoid sudden and hard stops and don’t weave around or swerve around. Also, pay attention to traffic reports so you’ll know when to avoid traffic jams on the roads.
Be smarter when parking your car.
Look for a shaded spot during hot months to keep your car cool and avoid overworking your AC later. If you can’t find a parking spot with shade, roll down your windows just a little bit to let air circulate.
Don’t spend too much time driving around looking for the nearest parking spot. Don’t be afraid to park and walk a few steps to where you’re going.
Be smart at the gas pump.
Go for the lowest octane or grade that is appropriate for your vehicle; premium fuel that’s priced higher won’t exactly improve your car’s efficiency. Avoid filling the tank to the brim as it can result in fuel spilling over, which is an unnecessary waste.
Be aware of gas station loyalty or membership card benefits if they are available. Also consider grocery or department store membership cards that offer fuel discounts.
Don’t be too concerned with brands since they all use the same pipelines and refineries anyway.
Think about cost savings more than branding although be aware of quality as well. Check out gas prices while you are out and about to see which gas stations are offering the best deals available.
Track your gas expenses and even your trips.
If you’re intent on spending less on gas, then learn to track your fuel expenses and your trips. Every time you purchase gas, write it down. Note down mileage and how much you bought. Through your records of your trips and gas expenses, you’ll be able to assess how much you spend every month and you’ll be able to make adjustments if you have to.
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