How to Save the Most Money on Gas

Gas prices can be a significant expense for many people. However, there are several simple and effective ways to save money on gas without compromising your daily commute or travel plans. I always get my gas at Costco and I know several people who fill up at Sam’s Club. I want to talk about how to save the most money on gas. I feel like the price of gas has been so high for so long and I don’t see the price coming down anytime soon.

Is saving money on gas a part of prepping for emergencies?

I don’t know anyone who likes to spend more money than they need to for anything. I believe that saving money on things that are essential to daily living can help free up your budget so that you can spend money on things like prepping for emergencies. If you have extra money, you can do things like:

1. Buy the right fuel

Most vehicles perform well on regular unleaded gasoline. Unless your car specifically requires premium gas, there is no need to spend extra money on higher octane levels. Emergency Fuel To Store For Survival Usually your owner’s manual will outline what’s suggested. Often those suggestions are based on driving your car at sea level. It pays to ask your local dealer what they suggest based on where you live and the type of driving you normally do. It may surprise you that you can get just as good of fuel economy with a lower octane gas choice.

2. Maintain proper tire pressure

Under-inflated tires can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 3%. Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended levels. 14 Uses for Your Old Worn-Out Tires Having your tires rotated as specified by the tire manufacturer will also add life to the tires and save money since they won’t be replaced as often.

3. Avoid excessive idling

Idling consumes fuel unnecessarily. If you anticipate waiting for more than a minute, it’s better to turn off your engine and conserve fuel. Of course, if it’s too hot outside or too cold, you might not want to do this. Your safety is always more important than saving money. Running your air conditioner all the time also uses more fuel. If the weather outside is more moderate, consider turning the AC off while driving. If not driving too fast like on the freeway, think about opening the window for some fresh air.

4. Drive smoothly

Aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking are not only unsafe but also waste fuel. Maintain a consistent speed and use gradual acceleration and deceleration whenever possible. This can be hard, but it’s such an important part of driving safely.

Usually, if you drive at the posted speed limit your car will get decent mileage, particularly on longer trips. Our car does best in the 72-76 mph range for highway speeds. When we travel at over 80 mph as allowed on some freeway systems, our mileage goes down some.

5. Remove excess weight

Extra weight in your vehicle can reduce fuel efficiency. Clear out any unnecessary items from your car interior, trunk, or roof rack to lighten the load and improve gas mileage. We have been driving the same vehicle for many years and we always clean it out at least once a month. If you take care of your vehicle, it will take care of you!

6. Use cruise control

Utilizing cruise control on long highway drives helps maintain a steady speed, reducing fuel consumption and promoting better gas mileage. I’m a big proponent of using cruise control. It’s also safer to use cruise control when on dry smooth pavement, but if the road is very wet, icy, or snow-covered turn off that cruise.

Be careful not to doze off when using your cruise control. Sometimes we tend to pay more attention if we’re in control of the gas pedal.

7. Plan your routes

Proper route planning can save you both time and money. Minimize unnecessary detours and avoid congested areas whenever possible to optimize your fuel efficiency. I’m someone who likes to run all my errands at once. I think it saves a lot of money to plan your routes. Types of Emergency Preparedness

Online guides like Google Maps and Waze can help you find the most direct and cost-efficient routes. They can even give you updates regarding traffic congestion ahead so you can take an efficient alternate route rather than sit in stalled traffic.

8. Take advantage of gas rewards programs

Many gas stations offer loyalty programs and fuel rewards that allow you to accumulate points or receive discounts on future fuel purchases. Sign up for these programs to make the most of your spending. Most large fuel companies like Exxon Mobil, Texaco, Shell, and others offer gas cards promoting the cheapest gas available at their particular stations.

Many of these cards are also the best gas credit cards with cash-back offers each year. You know you’ll be buying gas, so why not use a gas credit card for those gas purchases? Some versions of American Express cards, like the Blue Cash Preferred Card, provide discounts at various gas stations. Check that out and make sure you have the best one for your needs.

There are also grocery stores that have gas station facilities. They often will give you a discount at the pump based on how much you spend on groceries and sundries at their store. If you haven’t done so already, ask about any grocery store loyalty cards where you generally shop. The upside to this approach is that you’re saving money on gas when buying the food you need anyway. You aren’t getting free gas, but it kind of feels that way.

Be sure to check the quality of the gas at these filling stations too. The cheapest gas isn’t always the most cost-effective in the long run if it gums up your engine!

9. Pay with cash

Using cash instead of a card at the pump might save you a few cents per gallon. Some gas stations offer discounted rates for cash payments. Cash Stash: Standby for Emergencies

10. Consider carpooling or public transportation

Sharing rides with others or opting for public transportation can significantly reduce your fuel expenses. Explore carpooling options in your community or utilize public transit when feasible.

Some companies will help pay for your cost to commute. If you’re new at your job, ask if they have any reimbursement programs. That also applies to colleges and universities. Many have arrangements with the local transit authority for their students to get discounted or even free passes on buses and trains.

11. Regular vehicle maintenance

Keeping up with routine maintenance, such as oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that your car operates at its best efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle is more fuel-efficient and can save you money on gas in the long run.

What is the cheapest day to fill up on gas?

According to multiple sources, including The Hill, GasBuddy, and NBC Los Angeles, the cheapest day of the week to fill up on gas is typically Monday. Gas prices tend to be lowest at the beginning of the week, and filling up on Monday can help you save money and avoid long lines at the gas station.

However, it’s important to note that gas prices can vary depending on your location and the current state of the oil market. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before filling up your gas tank.

What speed should I drive to save gas?

When it comes to saving gas while driving, the optimal speed can vary depending on a few factors. However, most sources suggest that gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50-55 miles per hour (mph). Of course, if you’re on a highway, you will need to drive faster than that or else you may get run over.

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Final Word

Small changes in your driving habits and vehicle maintenance routine can go a long way in maximizing fuel efficiency and keeping more money in your wallet. Start implementing these tips today and enjoy the benefits of saving on gas costs. May God Bless this World, Linda

Copyright Images: Gasoline Being Pumped Into Car Depositphotos_56846305_S by Whitestarr1955, Gas Pumps Depositphotos_253456228_S by Samurkas