Gas prices are rising at astronomical rates. A large percent of an average household budget includes the cost of commuting. One of the largest cost of most commutes is gasoline. Here are some steps you can take to save money spent on gasoline:

Public Transportation - Utilizing public transportation can significantly cut down on gasoline expenses.

Carpool/Rideshare - If your community does not offer public transportation you may be able to save gas money by finding people to share the ride. You can share the drive as part of a carpool where you drive to work in a private car or you may be able to utilize an organized rideshare in a vanpool. Check with your company's Human Resources/Benefits department to see if they have a list of ride/van share opportunities in your area. Does your company offer a classifieds bulletin board? Advertise your carpool. Check on-line on sites such as Craigslist for potential participants.

Bicycle/Walk - Bicycling, or walking, to work offers both cost savings and health benefits. Search online to find available bike paths. Check with your company to ensure there is a safe place to leave your bike. You may also want to check for showering facilities. Invest in the appropriate safety equipment.

Telecommute - Not much in the way of gasoline costs when your commute is a walk from your bedroom to an office in your house. Even telecommuting a few days a week will dramatically cut your gasoline expenses.

Car Maintenance - If you must continue to drive to work, regular car maintenance will maximize mileage and minimize gasoline costs. Maintain a clean air filter and appropriate tire pressure along with regular tune ups and you will see an increase in the miles per gallon and lower costs. You may also want to consider low resistance tires.

GPS - A good GPS (Global Positioning System) can cut the costs of your commute by indicating the quickest route and minimizing gas costs spent idling in traffic.

Flextime - Take advantage of flextime if offered by your company. Staggered work hours may decrease the commute time and therefore lessen the amount of money spent on gas. You may also be able to find off hour offers for discount parking.

Miscellaneous - There are many other small things you can do to lower gasoline costs. Driving at a slower speed and combining errands help with gas consumption. Explore websites which list the cheapest gas prices in your area. Investigate specials offered by your local gas station; many stations offer cash discounts or "day of the week" specials. Check your credit cards for gas rebates. Empty out your trunk. A lighter car uses less gas.

There are many creative, and simple, ways to cut down on gasoline costs. Try them out and see which one works for you!

Learn more about this author, Bridie Cavanaugh.
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