10 Ways to Save Money on Gas
With gas prices rising by the day, filling up your tank has become painful.
Rapidly increasing inflation, stagnant wages, and decreased investment in infrastructure like road repair are making the impact of high gas prices even more noticeable.
While we’ll likely never see the ultra cheap gas prices of the 1980s and 1990s again, with a little planning you can get more bang for your gas-buying buck.
“Congratulate me. I’m so happy. I’m closing my loan for a full tank of gas!” — popular meme making the ronds on social media
Here are 10 easy ways you can decrease your gasoline costs.
- Gas prices can vary significantly, even within a one-mile radius. I recently noticed a 20 cents a gallon difference between two gas stations in my neighborhood that are less than a mile away from each other. Use apps like GasBuddy to comparison shop before you head out to the pump.
- Pay with cash. Many gas stations offer lower prices for cash purchases. Avoiding using your debit or credit card could save you 10 cents per gallon or more with each fill-up.
- Fill up your tank on Mondays or Tuesdays. A survey by GasBuddy found that gas prices are consistently cheaper earlier in the week. Many gas stations begin to jack up the prices as you get closer to the weekend.
- Use a fuel rewards program. Some gas stations, grocery stores, and discount stores like Costco and Sam’s Club offer fuel rewards cards. By using these loyalty cards, you can save anywhere from 3–10 cents per gallon.
- Keep your car in good shape, including maintaining appropriate tire inflation pressure. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that by keeping your tires properly inflated, getting regular tune-ups, using the appropriate oil for your vehicle, and replacing dirty filters, you can save anywhere from 3–20 cents per gallon.
- Consolidate trips. Frequent trips around town or driving back and forth will drain your gasoline as well as increase the wear and tear on your car. Plan your routes and get all your…
