Written By: Sarah Farmer Blevins
One thing that’s always on our minds when planning a trip, is how much we’ll need to budget for gas. While cars are a convenient way to get around, the cost of filling them up can add up quickly. So, before you head out on the road for your next adventure, let’s look at some tips for saving on fuel costs.
This one’s a no-brainer. Avoid speeding. Speeding is one of the main ways to waste gas. The faster you drive, the more fuel your car will burn, as it has to work harder to maintain speed. Maintain a steady speed, and avoid accelerating and braking frequently, as it uses more fuel. Try to keep a consistent speed throughout your journey.
Keep those tires inflated. Always make sure to regularly check your tire pressure, and make sure they aren’t over or under-inflated. Under-inflated tires can cause your vehicle to use more fuel. Not having your tires at the right pressure can also be dangerous. They need to be at just the right PSI to have a good grip on the road. Once all that’s settled, you’re ready to roll.
Use your cruise control. If you’re on a long trip, you’ll likely be commuting at a constant speed for a good while on the highway. Using cruise control can increase your fuel efficiency, and you can save on average of 7-14% on gas since you’re maintaining a constant speed. When driving without it, the constant acceleration and deceleration of pushing down on the pedals can cause you to burn more gas. Keeping cruise control on is also a sure fire way to guarantee you won’t wind up with a speeding ticket.
Pack lightly, and keep it simple. Carrying unnecessary weight can cause your car to use more fuel. The heavier your car, the more gas it will use. Go through and take out anything heavy or bulky that can weigh it down before you hit the road. Little things like this can add up, and save you money, especially when traveling long distances.
Try not to use the air conditioning as much, as that will also use up more fuel. Using the AC in hot weather can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 25%. When the air conditioner is on, the energy to keep it running is diverted from the engine, which leads to more fuel usage overall. Driving with the windows down at high speeds can increase the vehicle’s wind resistance, which will also result in a waste of gas. The best way to get around this problem is using the air conditioning at high speeds, and rolling the windows down when you’re driving slower.
Last but not least, there’s an app for that. As gas prices continue to climb, more and more people are seeking out ways to cut their costs at the pump. A gas rewards program can be a smart choice for anyone looking to save money and maximize their fuel efficiency. Every dollar counts, and there are a lot of great apps you can download to help you get the most bang for your buck.
I hope these tips make your travel experience more enjoyable, and saves you some money. Have a fantastic trip!