ALT-10 Ways to Save Money on Gas
A tough economy, and a tight job market, has us all watching our pennies these days. Stretching our budgets has become a way of life. A large percent of an average household budget includes the cost of commuting. One of the largest costs in most commutes is gasoline. Here are some steps you can take to save money spent on gasoline:
Change Your Mode of Commuting:1) Public Transportation - Utilizing public transportation can significantly cut down on gasoline expenses.
2) Carpool/Rideshare - If your community does not offer public transportation you may be able to save gas money by finding people to share the ride. You can share the drive as part of a carpool where you drive to work in a private car or you may be able to utilize an organized rideshare in a vanpool. Check with your company's Human Resources/Benefits department to see if they have a list of ride/van share opportunities in your area. Does your company offer a classifieds bulletin board? Advertise your carpool. Check on-line on sites such as Craigslist for potential participants.
3) Bicycle/Walk - Bicycling, or walking, to work offers both cost savings and health benefits. Search online to find available bike paths. Check with your company to ensure there is a safe place to leave your bike. You may also want to check for showering facilities. Invest in the appropriate safety equipment.
Change Your Commute Schedule:1) Telecommute There is not much in the way of gasoline costs when your commute is a walk from the bedroom to an office in your house. Even telecommuting just a few days a week will dramatically cut gasoline expenses.
2) Flextime - Take advantage of flextime if offered by your company. Staggered work hours may decrease the commute time and therefore lessen the amount of money spent on gas. You may also be able to find off hour offers for discount parking.
Maintain Your Car:1) Regular car maintenance maximizes mileage and minimizes gasoline costs.
2) Maintain a clean air filter.
3) Appropriate tire pressure.
4) Adhere to a schedule of regular tune ups and you will see an increase in the miles per gallon and lower gasoline costs.
5) Consider low resistance tires.
6) Empty out your trunk. A lighter car uses less gas.
Research:1) Explore websites which list the cheapest gas prices in your area.
2) Investigate specials offered by your local gas station; many stations offer cash discounts or "day of the week" specials.
3) Check your credit cards for gas rebates.
Miscellaneous:4) GPS - A good GPS (Global Positioning System) can cut the costs of your commute by indicating the quickest route and minimizing gas costs spent idling in traffic.
5) Cruise Control - Driving at a consistent speed decreases gas consumption.
6) Combining errands, so you have fewer trips and efficiently combine mileage, will help lower gasoline expense.
7) Keep your windows closed when driving on the highway. The drag created by an open window increases the fuel consumption of your car.
Stretch your budget! With a little effort and some creative, and simple, ideas you should be able to decrease gasoline costs. Try out a few of the ideas listed above and see which one works for you!
