Gas prices have been on the rise for months, and it’s widely known that this has not been kind to wallets everywhere. If you’re looking for some ways to pay less for gas, we’ve compiled a few ways to help.
Rewards Programs
Major grocery chains like Pick N’ Save (Kroger) offer reward programs that can help you save at the pump. Members can earn fuel points for money spent on groceries and general merchandise. Example: Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market customers are eligible to save up to $1 per gallon of fuel for every 1,000 points redeemed at participating BP gas stations.
Become a Member
Take advantage of warehouse club memberships. In most areas, warehouse clubs also sell gasoline, including Sam’s Club and Costco, and the costs generally beat local competitors by anywhere from 5 cents to 25 cents per gallon. Although a membership at a warehouse club can cost you anywhere from $45 to $60 per year, you can make this back in savings from the reduced gas prices – and also have access to many other benefits of cost savings with this membership.
Stay Light
The more weight you carry, the more energy and fuel is needed to move your vehicle. So keep your emergency kit, but remove any of the other unnecessary items in your car that you don’t need daily.
Gas Trackers and Price Comparison Tools
There are several websites and phone apps that allow you to quickly check gas prices at stations near you. They use your current location and list gas station locations nearby in order of price, so you can choose the lowest priced station at which to refill. (Remember not to drive out of your way to get to the lowest price!) Here are a few of these price comparison tools to look into to get you started: GasBuddy, Upside, Gas Guru, Waze, Dash, and MapQuest. Organizations like AAA and even some local news stations also allow you to check gas prices in your area on their websites.
Map Your Drive and Combine Errands
Obviously the best way to spend less on gas is to use less gas. Planning a route ahead of time and avoiding backtracking will make your next journey fuel-efficient. Instead of running out every time you need something, schedule time once a week to complete all your errands at once. Having a mile and a minute off a frequent route you take once a week can save an hour and several hundred dollars over the course of a year.
Set That Cruise Button
If you do a lot of highway driving, it pays to use your cruise control button. Not only does it help to reduce the wear and tear of the engine and transmission systems, setting the cruise control and staying at a steady speed has been shown to save on fuel usage (plus you can make sure you don’t go over the speed limit). Accelerating slowly and coasting more are not only safer ways to drive, but they can be cost-efficient driving habits as well.
Check Your Tire Pressure
Confirm your tire pressure is set according to your car’s manufacturer recommendation. Studies show that under-inflated tires result in more fuel being burned per mile as opposed to when the tires are properly inflated.
Proper Maintenance
If you have been putting off your scheduled maintenance, now is the time to schedule an appointment. Poor car maintenance can drop fuel efficiency. Along this line, make sure you are using your manufacturer’s recommended grade of oil. The wrong grade of motor oil can cost you 4 to 9 cents per gallon, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
If you do try a few of the ways above, check to see how much lower you have gotten your monthly gas budget! It’s nice and motivating to see that dollar amount drop.
