How to Combat Increasing Gas Prices

Gas prices are on the rise and those of us driving have noticed the significant dent in our wallets.  But we’ve got to keep moving and driving and getting where we need to go whether or not fuel prices increase.  So here are some tips to help keep your gas budget in check.

1) Discount memberships 

• Warehouse stores such as Sam’s Club and Costco offer significant discounts on gas prices, typically 20-30 cents cheaper than the average gas station.  They additionally have extra discounts on if you upgrade your membership or have a credit card through them.

2) Grocery Store Fuel Points

• Many grocery stores have free membership programs that allow you to earn points on your purchases for discounts on gas. Typically for every $100 spent on groceries you can earn 10 cents off per gallon. Depending on your grocery bill that can be some significant savings.

3) Gas Apps

• There are a handful of free apps available that can help out with finding the cheapest gas near you and offer discount rewards as well.  Check your app store and find the right one (or two, or all) that fits your needs.

4) Vehicle Maintenance

• Performing routine maintenance on your car or truck will keep it working as efficiently as possible and keep your gas mileage from going down.
• Keeping your tires filled to the correct air levels and rotating them on time will also add to your fuel efficiency.

5) Drive Sensibly 

• Driving the speed limit and accelerating slowly will maximize your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
• Combine lots of short trips into one planned out route to shorten the miles you drive.
• Travel light. The heavier your vehicle is the less fuel efficient it will be, so remove any unnecessary items that you may be lugging around.
• Avoid excessive idling.  Leaving your car running uses more fuel than restarting it.

6) Ride-Share

• We used to call it Carpooling but the concept and results are still the same, more people sharing the fuel cost to lessen the financial burden of filling your tank.

7) Bike or Bus

• If you live in a city or community that has great public transportation utilize it to your advantage.  The cost of the bus is typically less than the current cost of a gallon of gas.
• Human powered transportation is a great alternative to filling up your tank especially for short trips within your neighborhood.

8) Move Closer to Where You Work

• Shortening your commute to work, school, or your daily activities will definitely save you dollars in fuel costs.  Moving closer to the thing that you do will not only save money but also save you time in your daily commute.  Plus living closer to work may allow you to bike or use public transportation instead of driving to save you more.

The sticker shock of current gas prices may have your jaw dropping, but being proactive in your approach to saving on fuel and maximizing your car’s efficiency will hopefully curb your gas price anxiety.

If you are thinking about buying a home to suit you current needs we would love to talk to you about your goals.

Colorado Springs Real Estate - EXIT Realty Mountain View, Brandy Brown Employing Broker/Owner - We help home buyers and sellers along Colorado’s Front Range including Colorado Springs, Pueblo West, Woodland Park, Fountain, and Peyton. Please contact EXIT Realty Mountain View at 719.375.3864 to connect with one of the amazing brokers on our team.
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