Cut Down On Gas Expenses This Summer

Filed in archive Holiday Budget , Travel Tips on July 4, 2010

© blmurch

If you're traveling this summer, think about the following tips to help you save some money on gasoline expenses:

1. Check your tires. Make sure they are all properly inflated, including the spare. Well-maintained tires improve fuel efficiency by about 3.3 percent. Properly inflating your tires also allows for safer driving and longer life span for your tires.

2. Travel light. The heavier the vehicle load, the more gas it will need to burn to get you there. Every 100 pounds of extra weight you load into your car decreases fuel efficiency by about two percent.

3. Read and follow the manufacturer's manual. Use the recommended motor oil grade and try switching from premium to regular gasoline to cut down on costs.

4. Check the gas tank cap. Make sure it is secure. Any time the cap goes loose, gasoline will easily evaporate from the tank. This adds significantly to your fuel costs.

5. Try another mode of travel. Try walking, riding a bike or taking mass transit. If you must take the car, maybe you can carpool instead.