Pump Blues: How to Save Money on Gas

Gas prices seem to be in a state of constant flux, and more often than not, the price to fill up the tank of your vehicle will leave you scratching your head, wondering how to budget for this necessary evil. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to save money on gasoline.

• Avoid idling. Stop-and-go driving significantly lowers the amount of gas in your car, and time spent idling is still time spent using fuel. When driving, find as many safe ways as possible to turn off your car (at a stoplight, in the drive-through lane, etc.)
• In line with idling, try to avoid rush hour traffic. The high amount of vehicles inching along on the highway will cause you to stop-and-start. Not only will this put you in a bad mood, it’s bad for your car and your gas expenses!
• Learn how to coast. Slamming on your breaks at the last possible minute uses fuel, but coasting does not actually engage the gas in your car. So, when you’re approaching a stop light or stop sign, plan accordingly: coast as much as possible to slow down before you apply the brakes. Also, let your car coast for a short while before accelerating. This saves gas, as well.
• Keep an eye on your fuel levels, and don’t wait until you are running on fumes to fill up. As a good rule of thumb, once your gas tank is only one-quarter of the way filled up, stop and get some gas. Or, if you don’t mind stopping more often for gas, try to fill up whenever prices are low (or fit within your budget). Remember: there’s never a bad time to have a full tank of gas. Better safe than sorry!