It seems the price of gasoline is always on the rise, especially at the beginning of every Summer when it is anticipated that motorists will be doing more driving. If you own a car or other kind of vehicle these price increases must be very maddening; and if you are adhering to a tight budget, this kind of gas price manipulation is even more a cause for great concern. So how can you save some money on gas?In the following paragraphs we offer few practical tips you can use to cope with the Summer gasoline price hikes.
Carpool or commute
The carpooling system is a great idea for employees and students alike. Since all of you will have the same destination, there is no need to bring extra vehicles if you can all fit in one car or van. If you are with your co-workers, it is a good idea to bring your cars alternately or on rotation. If you have children that you bring to school or social events, exchange driving responsibilities with your friends.
Commuting to work is never a bad idea when you have access to a public transportation system that you can utilize when going to the office. This is also a good way to get a little relaxation while someone else, whose job it is to drive, is doing the driving. You can even take a short nap while on your way.
Gas shopping & bike riding
Compare different gas station prices by taking a little extra time to drive around and check the pump prices of the gas stations around your neighborhood. Keep in mind that a few cents difference can add up to a lot if you continually have your car re-filled in the same gas station all the time.
Shedding some sweat (and perhaps pounds) is another good way to save money on gas while keeping yourself healthy at the same time. Walking or riding a bike to your destination can save time since you do not have to look for parking, and it also makes you healthier from the exercise. Utilizing these alternatives will also keep you from getting stuck in traffic which will surely waste a lot of your time and gas.
Tune-ups & tire pressure
Keep your car well tuned / in good running condition because it’s always important and necessary to keep your car’s engine in good running condition so that it will not consume a lot of fuel. When driving around on errands, plan out your route before you even get out of the house. This will minimize your trips going back and forth. It is also ideal to use the air condition only when absolutely necessary since it drastically increases the car’s fuel consumption.
Check your car’s tire pressure… in fact you should make it a habit of checking your car’s tires so each one contaiins the right amount of pressure. Having unequal pressure can greatly affect the car’s fuel economy. It is also advisable for you to refrain from accelerating too fast since this means burning a lot more fuel.
These are some of the things you can do to save on gas. Gasoline is not a renewable resource, therefore using it wisely is very important to conserve this valuable commodity.