by David Dewitt

Created on: October 28, 2008

The saying, "There is no such thing as a free lunch" seems to resonate with many people. There is a general skepticism when it comes to free offers because of hidden fees, scams, and deceptive practices in business. All of this begs the question: can we really get free gas somewhere?

If by free, you mean that the gas is given to you, without any effort than the answer is most definitely no. However, with some minimal effort and a small investment of time, you can get gasoline without breaking your wallet to get it.

Get a New Ride

If you are in the market for a new car, it is indeed a good time to buy. Car prices are dropping and additional incentives are used to lure in prospective buyers. These include free maintenance, oil changes and even free gas. Granted you will be paying for the car and the gas is far from free but you might be able to get a deal on some gas in the process.

Time to Hit the Pool

Carpooling can save gas by sharing rides together for various reasons. The concept of carpooling is that those who share the ride share the cost of the gas. With this in mind, the gas is not free. However, there are areas across the country offering incentives to carpool. One of the incentives being offered are free gas cards. Check your area and see if you might qualify.

At Home and Away

There are a number of ways to get free gas during vacation. Many car rental companies are offering a free tank of gasoline with a multi-day rental. This can help the cost of vacation, especially if you are already renting a car. Be sure to shop around and check on these kinds of offers because they can help lower the cost of your vacation.

Travel agencies also are giving away gas cards with the purchase of trips. The goal is to help off set the cost of traveling and encourage people to travel for vacation. Again, this is good if you are already planning a vacation trip.

There are hotel chains that are also offering gas cards for those who stay in their hotels for three nights. The promotion ran through the summer by Choice Hotel chain but others may soon jump on board.

Food and Gas Next Exit

There are various restaurant chains doing drawings for free gas cards. A number of local restaurants are doing similar things. The chance to win gas in exchange for a meal is a great deal, especially if you are eating out anyway. It might pay to eat out on your lunch break.

Grocery stores are getting in on the action as well. Some grocery store chains are offering monthly drawings for gas cards. You may want to check the next time you pick up your weekly groceries and see if you might be able to cash in with some free gas.

Holy Rolling

Now this may seem a bit strange but churches are giving away gasoline. There are churches that are offering drawings for gas cards just for coming to church. The names of visitors are placed into the drawing and one lucky winner is drawn for the free gas. It might just pay to invest a Sunday morning in worship.

Gas prices may be on the way down but there is no way to beat getting some gasoline for free. With a little effort and a bit of luck you might find yourself driving away with some free gas in your tank.

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