by Robin Stevens

Created on: November 02, 2008   Last Updated: November 12, 2008

Saving money in today's economy is important. Saving gas is even more essential. We have seen gas prices rise at an alarming rate and still our travel times and the the length of our travels have not changed. There are some ways to save gas and I would like to share those with you. One of those ways is to check local news websites that offer locations that may be in your area offering the lowest gas in town. You will use more gas driving around trying to find the lowest price. Aside from that, when driving, consider leaving home a little early each morning when going in to work so that you are not lead to rush or "speed" you way in. When we speed, the amount of gas we use is increased, therefore we are not getting the most out of the gas we purchase. Also when you are waiting at the stop light, as the light turns green, don't punch the pedal as if racing, rather ease your foot onto the gas pedal for a smoother start, thus saving gas.

Another way to save gas is to make sure your vehicle has had its routine maintenance. When a vehicle has had a tune-up, regular oil changes and even tire rotations, this could save you a lot of money and headaches. With routine maintenance checks, the vehicle is running more efficiently, therefore using less gas. Consider also the items that may be in the trunk of your car. I have seen boxes of clothes and books stored in trunks as well as large tool kits that have nothing to do with changing a tire, or other needs the car may have. Driving around with a loaded trunk adds weight to the vehicle. This extra weight causes the car to drag and therefore uses more gas to pull the vehicle along. Take the time to clean out your vehicle of items that are only taking up space.

Limit the stops you make on a regular basis. Go a route on the way home that has the stops you need that are in the same area so that driving around town is kept to a minimum. Your route could include the grocery store, bank and dry cleaning stop all in one area. Make sure those at home know you will be making these stops so if there is a need of a poster board for Johnny, or candy for a party for Susie, you can pick those items up as well. Consolidate or limit the amount of activities you are doing on the weekdays and weekends that are not important. If someone you know lives in your area, try car pooling to events to save gas.

And lastly drive the posted speed limit. Driving the speed limit will save even more gas and you will find that your vehicles will use a tank of gas more effectively. In the end, it is all about savings. We cannot change what oil prices are, but we can change how we drive how effectively we use the gas purchased so that it is a benefit, not a burden.

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