Stick to your monthly budget when you save money on gas.
Does it seem like a large portion of your monthly budget goes to gas? It’s one of those things we need, but not exactly something we’re excited to spend money on.
Whether you take the time to check for the lowest price or maintain your car, there are ways to save money on gas. Give these strategies a try!
Ways to Save Money on Gas
Check for the Lowest Price
Did you know there are apps out there that will tell you which gas station in your area has the lowest price? These apps can help prevent the need to drive around looking for the best price. One of the most popular apps is Gas Buddy, which is available on Apple and Android devices.
Use a Lower Octane
It turns out that most cars do not require high octane gas, even when their user manuals recommend it. Read more about why you might not actually need premium gas. Then, switch to regular and see the savings immediately.
Combine Errands
Instead of running out each day to run an errand, combine those errands. You can save so much gas by doing as much as you can in one day.
Speaking of errands–while you may be able to get one thing cheaper at another store than at your regular store, consider how much gas you’ll use driving to the second store for that one item. Is it really worth it?
Join a Carpool
Carpools can be a great way to save money on gas! Do a carpool with other moms to drive your kids to practice and games.
I rely on carpools because there’s only one of me and three kids to get around. My neighbors and friends with kids the same age share driving duties every week. This helps each family save so much money over the course of a year.
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Invest in a Different Vehicle
If you own a gas-guzzler, it may be time to upgrade. That doesn’t mean you have to buy a brand new vehicle, but you do need to look for a vehicle that gets better gas mileage.
Depending on how bad your current gas mileage is, you may even save money by taking on a car payment.
We purchased a used Prius last fall, and now I drive that during the day instead of our aging minivan (except when I’m carpooling 5-6 kids!). The gas mileage is fantastic (around 55 miles per gallon), and it saves us a lot of money over the older, larger vehicle.
Walk or Bike
If you live in an area where you can walk or bike to the places you need to go, do it. Not only will you save money on gas, but you’ll also be doing something good for your health.
Maintain Your Car
Last, but not least, if your car is using more gas than it used to, you may not be maintaining your car as best as you should. For example, a clogged air filter can cause your engine to work harder and thus use more gas.
Try to keep a line in your monthly budget for car maintenance, since you’ll save over the long run by doing preventative services.
It’s actually easier to save money on gas than you think. Keep your car maintained, join a carpool, and combine errands. There are so many little things you can do that will make a big difference.