In today’s economy, saving money on gas is more important than ever. According to AAA data, gas prices remain at all-time highs, reaching a national average of $4.68 per gallon. The fuel cost has risen dramatically in recent months, causing a spike in inflation and showing no sign of slowing down.

However, there are a few ways to save money on gas and reduce your fuel costs. Here are 12 tips that will help you save money on gas!

#1 Use a Gas Price Comparison App

With gas prices constantly increasing, ensuring you’re getting the best deal possible when you fill up is more important than ever. There are a few different approaches you can take. You can drive to several stations to compare prices or use a gas price comparison app.

Gas price comparison apps like GasBuddy and AAA are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a convenient way to find lower prices from different providers in your area. By entering your location and the type of gas you’re looking for, you can quickly see which stations in your area offer the best prices.

You can also set up alerts so that you’ll always be informed when gas prices change in your area. Whether a casual driver or a serious road warrior, a gas price comparison app is valuable in your arsenal.

#2 Signup for Gas Credit Cards and Loyalty programs

Credit cards that offer cash back on gas purchases can be a great way to save money. Some cards provide between 2% to 5% cash back on gas purchases which can add significant savings over time.

Many different cards are available, so it is important to compare features and benefits before choosing one. Be sure to follow the basics of personal finance and pay off your credit card balance on time and in full each month.

With some research, you can find the perfect card for your needs.

Earn rewards with fuel loyalty programs. Most major gas companies, including Shell, BP, and Exxon, have rewards systems. Regional grocery stores like Kroger and Safeway also offer fuel reward programs.

Costco, Walmart Plus, and Sam’s Club provide members with discounted gas costs; however, since the club membership involves annual fees, you need to run the numbers to see if it would be worth it.

#3 Plan Your Trips and Drive Sensibly

Did you know a couple of short trips made from a cold start would use twice as much gasoline as a longer multipurpose journey covering the same distance? According to Fueleconomy.gov, when your engine is cold, your fuel efficiency is lower than when it has been warmed up. Combining errands into one trip saves you time and money.

A study by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that aggressive behavior behind the wheel can lower gas mileage in light-duty vehicles by about 10 to 40 percent in stop-and-go traffic and roughly 15 to 30 percent at highway speeds.

For you and others, defensive driving is also safer, so you may save more than just money on gasoline. Many insurance companies provide discounts for safe and defensive driving. Also, at speeds above 50 mph, fuel efficiency typically deteriorates rapidly. Each five mph you drive over 60 mph is equivalent to paying an additional $0.15 per gallon for gas.

Cruise control on the highway allows you to maintain a constant speed while saving gasoline, in most cases.

#4 Drive Less

One of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to drive less. In addition, driving less can also save you money on maintenance costs. If everyone tried to drive less, it would positively impact the environment and our wallets. So next time you need to run a quick errand, try walking or biking instead of driving. You’ll be doing your part to help the planet and save money simultaneously.

#5 Don’t Use Your AC

One way to conserve energy and save money is to avoid using your car’s air conditioner. According to the US Department of Energy, running the AC in your vehicle can use up to 30% more fuel than if you open the windows.

Suppose you need to cool off while driving; try turning on the fan and opening the windows. You may also want to park in a shady spot and turn off the engine while taking a break.

#6 Eliminate Excess Weight

Excess weight in your car can hurt your gas mileage. For every extra 100 pounds, your vehicle will use 1% to 2% more fuel.

Hauling goods on your roof adds aerodynamic (wind) resistance and lowers fuel efficiency. According to research, the penalty for installing a rooftop cargo box on a compact sedan at higher speeds was as much as 25-27%.

When you don’t need an external cargo container, it’s more fuel-efficient to remove it. The same applies to racks or storage on the top or back of your vehicle. Leaving your canoe or bike on the car will add weight and reduce aerodynamic efficiency.

#7 Keep Your Car Well-Maintained

Owning a car is a big responsibility. Not only do you have to ensure that it has enough gas to get you from point A to point B, but you also need to perform regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Failing to do so can result in decreased gas mileage, increased repair costs, and even complete engine failure.

Fortunately, there are a few simple things that you can do to keep your car well-maintained and save money on gas. For example, according to the US Department of Energy, keeping tires inflated to the recommended pressure can improve your gas mileage by up to 3%. Additionally, ensuring that your engine is tuned correctly and regularly changing your oil and air filter will help to prolong the life of your engine and save you money on expensive repairs down the road.

#8 Avoid Rush Hour Traffic

Most people dread rush hour traffic. Not only is it frustrating to be stuck in a long line of cars, but idling in traffic wastes gas. And the stop-and-go nature of rush hour driving can strain your car’s engine, leading to increased maintenance costs.

Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to avoid rush hour traffic. One is to adjust your work schedule to avoid peak travel times.

If that’s not possible, drivers can stay informed about traffic conditions using traffic monitoring apps. You can map out the best way to get to your destination and avoid any congestion spots.

#9 Carpool With Friends or Coworkers

Carpooling is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, save money on gasoline, and get to know your fellow commuters.

Many cities have dedicated carpool lanes on the freeway. Besides saving money on gas, you can also save commute time.

Plus, if you carpool with your coworkers, you can have your work-related meetings in the car, enabling you to save time at work.

#10 Join the Micro Mobility Movement

Electric scooters and bikes are becoming increasingly popular.

Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that they save money on gas. It is not only good for your wallet but also good for the environment.

Electric scooters and bikes are often more lightweight and maneuverable than cars, making them ideal for city driving.

So if you’re looking for a more efficient, environmentally-friendly, and fun way to get around, an electric scooter or bike may be just what you’re looking for.

#11 Buy a More Fuel-Efficient Car

One way to save money on gas is to buy a more fuel-efficient car. Another option is to trade your car for a smaller, more fuel-efficient model.

Many cities also permit fuel-efficient cars to use the carpool lane during peak rush hour. Consequently, you can also save time and avoid traffic congestion.

#12 Use Public Transportation

Public transportation can be a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. By using buses, trains, or other forms of mass transit, you can avoid the costs of owning and operating a car, including gas, insurance, and maintenance.

In addition, Internal Revenue Code, Section 132(f)—Qualified Transportation Fringe Commuter benefits allow employees to enroll in a commuter benefits program and pay for their commuting costs with pre-tax money, up to the current limit of $280/ month for 2022.

Conclusion

Although it is unclear how long the current high gas prices will continue, following these 12 tips will permanently save you money which you can use towards your financial goals.

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This article was produced by Financial Freedom Countdown and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.

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