How to Save Money on Gas: The Savings Pledge Series!

Saving money on gas…that seems to be a subject that I’m asked a lot about lately and it is kind of an interesting one. Although the vast majority of us cannot individually influence the price of the gas at the pump, there are some things that we can do to become smarter consumers of fuel:

1. Drive Less
Clearly this seems quite obvious, but how intentional are you really about driving less? I find that sometimes I say I will try to drive less if gas prices go up, but then reality happens and that becomes much more difficult to actually implement in “real life”. One thing that I’ve found to help a lot recently is becoming a better planner. Instead of randomly running errands throughout the week, I’ve committed myself to taking just a few minutes to think through where I need to go and make a more intentional plan about when I go. This small change has really affected the amount of gas that I’m consuming each week.

2. Use Fuel Rewards
If one of your area grocery stores or super-centers offers fuel rewards, this one is plain and simple…make sure you are taking advantage of them! Although .10 off a gallon of fuel many not seem like much, these small amounts can really add up quickly. Some stores will even let you fill up more than one car with the discount, thus doubling your savings!

3. Keep Your Car Tuned Up
Many studies have proven that a properly maintained vehicle gets better gas milage than one that is poorly maintained. I’ve seen quite a few car care deals on dialy deal websites recently, so if you are having a hard time affording a tune-up be sure to keep your eyes out for deals online. Don’t forget to also check the air pressure in your tires. If you are not sure what it should be check your car’s owner’s manual or online.

4. Don’t Drive Like You’re Going to Save the World
One of my friends often says when someone zips by at a fast speed…  “oh they must be off to save the world”….and honestly, I confess, that sometimes I’m one of those people. Most experts agree that the most fuel efficient speed limit for your car is typically going to be the lowest speed that you can go while still being in the highest gear. The reality is that none of us are really off to save the world and speeding can not only cost us money in terms of a traffic ticket, but it risks our safety and the safety of others around us.

What other things do you do to save money on gas?

This is the second post in The Savings Pledge Series. Have you taken the Savings Pledge yet?