How to Save on Gasoline
In this tough economy, we all find ourselves watching prices. Every penny counts and we must stick to budgets! A large percent of an average household budget is spent commuting. One of the largest commuting expenses is gasoline. We can't all run out and buy a new, more fuel efficient, hybrid car in order to save on gasoline costs. But we can easily reduce the amount we spend for gasoline on a regular basis.
Here are some steps you can take to save money spent on gasoline:
Car Maintenance - Regular car maintenance maximizes mileage and minimizes costs. You will see an increase in the miles per gallon and lower your gasoline expense.
1. Maintain a clean air filter and appropriate tire pressure.
2. Regular tune ups Switch to low resistance tires.
3. Empty out your trunk. A lighter car uses less gas.
GPS - A good GPS (Global Positioning System) can cut the costs of your commute.
1. Services may require utilization of premium equipment and an access fee. Factor this into any cost savings comparisons to gasoline prices.
2. Indicates the quickest route to your destination.
3. Minimizes gas costs spent idling in traffic.
4. Gas prices may also be monitored and stations easily found
Online Monitoring - Gas prices change frequently and prices can vary by as much as $.50/gallon within a few blocks. There are many internet sites which monitor gas prices.
1. Some sites monitor prices based on local consumer feedback (Gasbuddy.com, Gaspricewatch.com).
2. Other websites gather information from databases updated with prices based on credit card receipts (Mapquest.com, MSNauto.com).
3. Factor in the distance you need to drive to the gas station. Extra miles result in extra gasoline consumption. The extra gallons needed may outweigh any savings at the pump.
Specials - Watch for discounts and plan purchases accordingly.
1. Many stations offer cash discounts or special "day of the week" pricing.
2. Grocery stores occasionally offer gas discounts with $x.xx of groceries purchased.
Credit Cards - Credit cards often offer bargains on gas purchase.
1. Check credit cards for gas rebates.
2. Weigh in credit card fees and potential interest charges before charging.
Change Your Commute - Changing the way you commute can drastically reduce gasoline expense. While some of these changes may offer less flexibility; changing your commute slightly even just a few days a week can result in significant savings
1. Join a carpool.
2. Ask to telecommute from home a few days a week.
3. Check out public transportation.
4. Take advantage of flextime hours. Off hour schedules can lessen commuting time and result in less gas consumption.
5. Plan your errands so you do more at once rather than take multiple trips with the car.
Miscellaneous - Be creative. There are many more options you can use to save gasoline money. For example:
1. Wholesale Clubs - Large warehouse stores, such as Costco, and even some major grocery store chains offer discounted gas prices. Check for one in your area.
2. Explore - Check prices at gas stations in the less affluent sections of your community. Less affluent areas usually require lower overhead for gas station owners and allow them to offer cheaper prices.
Perseverance, creativity and curiosity will help you save money on gasoline. Monitor prices, maintain your car and fill up when you see a bargain. Incoporating just a few changes into your commute can save on your gasoline expense.
