Do you find yourself using your credit card just to gas up? Bad idea. With sky-high gas prices, it can be difficult to gas up without going into debt these days. Here are eight ways to save money on gas without going into debt.
Tip # 1: Shop around for your gas
Maybe you are not used to shopping around for your gas. In the good old days of $2.00 gallons, you could afford to stop at the first gas station you came across in order to fill up. Not anymore. Now it is possible to feel the difference simply by filling up at a station offering its gas for a few cents less per gallon than the competition across the street. Make sure to shop around for gas before filling up. In most cities you can find gas stations selling gas for ten to fifteen cents less per gallon than their competitors. Use web sites such as Gas Buddy in order to find the cheapest gas in your area.
Tip # 2: Buy gas from your grocery store
One of the trends we have been seeing in recent years is grocery stores offering discount gas to customers. Many stores are now offering these types of savings discounts. Usually you will need to sign up for a store savings card, and some stores offer deeper discounts after you have spent a certain amount on groceries. Some stores are known for offering deep discounts during special promotional periods, so keep your ears and eyes open.
Tip # 3: Ride your bike for work and simple errands
So you haven’t ridden a bike since you were twelve, you say. It’s time to practice your skills and remember why riding a bike was so much fun in the first place. With more people on bikes than ever before, you will probably not be alone in commuting to work on your bike. Plus, you get the added bonus of getting in shape. Get a good basket put on your bike and use it for small shopping errands around your neighborhood. Even if you only ride your bike a few times a week, the savings on gas will quickly add up.
Tip # 4: Start your own rideshare
Even if you have never commuted before, it’s probably time to start. Commuting is a low-stress and money-saving way to save money on gas. There are many web sites that now help connect people who need to save money on their daily commute. You would be surprised how many people in your neighborhood probably drive to roughly the same area.
Tip # 5: Move closer to work
If you are used to a long commute, it’s probably costing you an arm and a leg just to make it to work. If you rent an apartment or even if you own your own home, it may be the right time to consider making a move. If you love your job and are willing to make the move, this can save you considerably on transportation costs. Sit down and do the math if you are not convinced, and think about how much time and stress you will save by working close to home.
Tip # 6: Invest in a bus pass
Even if you have never ridden the bus before, maybe it’s time to start. Many cities offer discounted bus passes for commuters. You would probably be surprised how easy, efficient and relaxing it can be to sit back and let another person do the driving for you.
Tip # 7: Always fill up with cash
Many gas stations are now offering discounts for cash purchases. Not only is cash a cheaper way to buy gas, it can also help you stay out of debt. The last thing you want is to spend five years paying for a gallon of gas, but that’s what interest rates will do to you.
Tip # 8: Telecommute
If possible, look into the option of telecommuting. Even telecommuting once or twice a week from home can save you a lot of money on gas.
