6 Ways to Save Money on Gas

I have a tendency to get a little depressed whenever I fill up my tank.  I don’t remember exactly how much gas cost when I started driving, but I do remember the days when it was below $1.50 per gallon.  It’s depressing if I think about it for too long….UGH!

While I can’t control the prices of oil or whatever else goes on behind the scenes to influence our fuel prices, we try our best to keep fuel costs down as much as possible and we’ve learned a few things along the way.  Today, I’m sharing 6 ways we try to save money on gas.    

PRICE AT THE PUMP

1.  Take advantage of grocery store rewards programs

Many supermarkets offer rewards programs that translate to fuel point rewards.  For example:  For every dollar I spend at Kroger, I accumulate a fuel point.  Once I reach 100 fuel points, I can opt to redeem my fuel points for $.10/gallon off my gas when I fill up at Kroger.  They often have special promotions where I can get double fuel points, which helps me rack up those fuel points quicker.  Every little bit helps, and since I shop at Kroger anyway, it’s a convenient way for me to save a little on my gas.  Even if your particular grocery store does not have a gas station attached, they will often offer gas cards to local stations.  Check it out!

2.  Pay with cash

Some gas stations will offer a discount on their gas if you pay with cash.  I typically pay for gas with my check card, but if your local stations offer a discount for using cash, then it might be worth it to bring a little cash with you the next time you fill up.  I took advantage of this when we were driving back from our 4th of July weekend.  

3.  Take advantage of any drug store gas card deals

It’s no secret that I love playing the drug store game.  Especially in the summer months, drug stores will offer gas cards if you purchase certain products or spend a certain amount of money on certain products.  It’s a great way to score some good deals on items you’ll use anyway and save some money on your next fill up at the gas station.  

4.  Check websites like Gasbuddy or other apps before you fill up

The internet and Smartphones have made it so much easier to find the cheap gas around your local area.  It might not be worth driving across town to save a few cents, but these sites can help when you are deciding between a few gas stations in your nearby area.

HOW YOU DRIVE

5.  Increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency

One of the best ways to save money on gas is to buy less of it.  Sounds obvious, right?!  Here are some ways to increase your fuel efficiency, so you can fill up your tank less often.

– Don’t accelerate or break too hard

– Reduce drag as much as possible {ex. remove luggage racks, keep windows up on the highway, etc.}

– Avoid long idles

– Drive the speed limit 

– Use cruise control when possible

– Keep tires inflated properly

– Avoid heavy loads

– Properly maintain your vehicle {ex. keep filters clean, etc.}

– Reduce A/C 

PLAN AHEAD

6.  Drive less  

Driving less is the most immediate and effective way to save money on gas.  Here are some ideas on how you might be able to reduce your amount of driving.

– Plan your routes ahead of time

– Consolidate your shopping trips/errands as much as possible

– Carpool with friends
– Utilize public transportation

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