Saving Gas Sensibly

by Shaunna Privratsky - The Discount Diva - http://shaunna67.tripod.com/id21.html 

Used by permission

        It is getting more and more painful to pay the soaring gas prices at the pump.  With the summer travel season right around the corner, and record high increases on the horizon, we need to stretch our gas money as far as it will go.

        Most of us rely on vehicles in our daily lives, whether it is transportation to and from work, school, to grocery stores and appointments.  Short of throwing away our keys forever, there are many ways we can stretch our gas dollars.

        Drive slower.  Most vehicles optimum operating speed on highways is 55 mph.  For each 5mph of increased speed, you use up another gallon of gas.  In North Dakota, the average posted speed limit on highways is 70mph.  By reducing your speed to 60mph you will save two gallons for an hour-long trip.
        Set your clocks ahead ten minutes.  Then you will not be rushing or trying to make lights in your mad dash.  Sudden stops and starts decrease your gas mileage and add wear and tear on your brakes, not to mention your nerves.
        Try a mix of fuel with ethanol added.  It is cheaper and burns cleaner.  Check your owner’s manual to make sure this is okay for your vehicle.

        Unless you are a racecar driver, never pay extra for premium grade gas.  A few cents per gallon adds up tremendously when you consider that we are paying, on the average, double what we were paying a few short months ago. 

        Watch for price wars and discount coupons.  Again, saving a few cents on the gallon keeps more money in your pocket.  

        Group or limit your errands.  I try to do all my shopping once a week. I saved an entire tank of gas last month!  I also tend to buy less overall than with many small trips.

        Fill your tank before it gets on the E.  Most newer vehicles have a light or sound indicator when it is getting close, but a good rule of thumb is to fill it when it reaches an eighth.  If the amount of fuel goes too low, sediments get into the gas line and can lower your gas mileage.
        Carpool whenever possible.  Think beyond just work carpools; you could also trade off with your neighbor when taking the kids to school, sporting events and practices, after school activities, weekly bowling night, etc.  It makes the trips more economical and more fun for everyone.
        Small, motorized scooters are a very cheap form of transportation.  On the average they get 50-70mpg. Each city may have different laws about safety issues and where you can drive them. 

        Ditch gas altogether and dust off your bike.  For short trips in nice weather, bicycles are a great way to get there fast and burn off some calories at the same time.  Follow all traffic rules for maximum safety.

        Use public transportation.  Most cities offer free rides to students and free or reduced rates for seniors or those with disabilities.  Call up your local bus station for routes, times and fees and you will save a bundle.

        These tips will keep you on the road without breaking your budget.  Consider your transportation needs and adjust your habits accordingly.  Soon you will be saving gas sensibly.

Note from Lois: Keep a tire gauge handy and check the air pressure in your tires on a regular basis for better gas mileage.  Check your manual for your vehicle's best air pressure.