Fuel prices have been rising lately, and with the summer travel season underway, any savings can beextremely helpful. Following are six tips for saving on gas this summer.
1. Lighten Your Vehicle's Load
You can improve your gas mileage if you get rid of extra weight from your vehicle. Many people regularly carry extra weight without even thinking about it. For example, you might have sports gear, tools, bottled water, storage bins, or other heavy items that can add extra unnecessary pounds. This weight can force the engine to use more fuel, particularly during stop-and-go driving in town.
Things like roof racks and cargo carriers can also add weight that reduce fuel efficiency while increasing aerodynamic drag. Remove items that you don't need for daily driving. Pack efficiently when taking any trip, including short ones, as they add up. When gas prices are high, even seemingly minor adjustments can make a big difference over time.
2. Plan Trips Efficiently
Packing efficiently is one thing, but try to be more efficient in your trip planning overall. Instead of making frequent short trips, make necessary trips at one time, planning the most efficient route. Combine errands and reduce the total mileage you must drive compared to making separate trips. It can also help to minimize repeated engine warm-ups, which consume more fuel when the engine is cold.
Take advantage of carpooling, especially for work commutes, sports practices, etc., if it makes sense for the people involved. If there is a family gathering, see if you can ride with a loved one. Sharing rides can help spread the cost of fuel among multiple passengers while also reducing wear on vehicles.
3. Keep Your Car in Good Shape
It's important to keep your vehicle in good shape not only to prolong its life, but also to save on fuel costs.
"Ensuring your vehicle is in optimal condition can help improve its fuel economy, meaning fewer stops at the gas station," says AARP.* "Stay on top of oil changes, tire rotations and other routine maintenance, and get to a mechanic
ASAP if your car’s check-engine light goes off. Tire pressure is also key."
4. Take Advantage of Rewards and Apps
Make the most of rewards and apps that can help you save money on gas. Many gas stations, grocery stores, warehouse clubs, and credit cards offer some type of fuel rewards program. Typically, you can save money at the pump by using these. Even if the savings seem small individually, they can add up over time, especially if you drive a lot.
You can also make use of gas price comparison apps, which can be an invaluable tool during summer travel. As prices can vary dramatically between stations located only a few miles apart, it can pay to check prices before filling up and help you avoid overpaying. On longer trips that require a lot of gas, this can help reduce overall costs.
5. Slow Down and Use Cruise Control
Don’t drive faster than you need to. Speeding not only breaks the law but also reduces fuel efficiency.
"Cars are powerful, alluring beasts, and it’s tempting to give in to doing 70 or even 80 mph on the highway like the other drivers so you’ll 'make good time.' But get into the habit of pretending you’re a little old lady in the right lane, with
cruise control set to 55 mph, and the gas savings will be significant," says Josh Max at Forbes.** "This is really one of the best things you can do for mileage."
6. Create a Travel/Transportation Fund
Gas prices have been high lately, and it’s difficult to predict when that might change. Setting aside funds specifically for transportation and travel expenses can help you manage these costs over time. Even if you’re not planning major trips, having money set aside for fuel and routine driving can make expenses more manageable. Consider using a dedicated savings account or budgeting category for these costs so you can track spending andadjust as needed.
Even though prices are high, there's no reason expensive fuel must ruin your summer plans. Use the tips above to make your gas dollar stretch further.
* https://www.aarp.org/money/personal-finance/high-gas-prices-saving-tips/