7 Tips to Help you Drive Less

Even the most savvy, budget conscious money pincher may be missing potential savings on the morning commute. Perhaps you've detailed every mile of your week, including grocery trips, and allot a certain amount of gas money accordingly.

Even more essential than your quantity of driving is your quality of driving. Believe it or not, driving is an art that can be improved upon--for safety and for financial gain. Going the extra mile doesn't have to mean a budget strain. You may just need to evaluate some driving habits that keep you filling up the gas tank more frequently:

1. Downsize to a one-car family.
Don't groan just yet. After being rear-ended several months ago, our family of 3.5 was reduced to one car for a long period of time. We also lived in a small two-bedroom apartment on the third floor in an area not conducive to foot traffic. It was a huge sacrifice and I'd be lying if I said every moment was an obvious learning opportunity. Being homebound with small children during sweltering heat was a true test of patience.

What I did notice was a huge deficit in spending over those months. Not only the obvious ones--gas, oil change, random repairs--but also overall spending on fast food lunches, mall purchases, and other quick buys that impaired mobility affects. Our monthly reduction during the one-car family months was $300 cheaper than with a second mode of transportation. If your situation allows you to take a spouse to a stationary job (which we did not have), you can easily make it work.

2. Make a list of outings and stick to it.
The "oops I forgot" trips really take a toll on your gas bill. Become a dedicated list taker and make a plan for all the trips you intend to take during the week. Include grocery shopping, meetups with friends, commute to work, church happenings, and everything else to have a clear idea of your weekly mileage. Even keep a chart to hold yourself accountable to the list.

3. Head to the gas station at the 1/4 tank mark, no more or less.
If you always run on empty, you can quickly shorten the lifespan of your electric fuel pump as it has to work overtime to pressurize a small amount of fuel. If you always drive around with a full tank you'll be toting a lot of extra weight around with you, increasing your usage of gas.

4. Fill up on Wednesdays and a few days before the holidays.
While the petroleum industry is heavily regulated, there is still plenty of room for supply and demand. Think about when you fill up before heading out of town on a holiday weekend. Usually Friday after the bags are loaded in the car. The folks running the pumps know this and prices are historically higher 2-3 days before holidays. Also, Wednesdays tend to trend lower than other days, but this isn't a steadfast rule every week.

5. Check the tire pressure every time you fill up.
Back in the glory days of full service, your tank refill included a fluid check, tire pressure reading and adjustment, window washing, and a smile. You'll have to pay a pretty penny more for the same service today. Be your car's (and wallet's) advocate and check the tire pressure. Keeping it in line with where it needs to be can save up to $800 each year on gas costs. Most car tires range between 27 and 32 psi for optimum gas mileage. Check with your manufacturer's guide to get the best information.

6. Ease up on the gas, lead foot!
The less you are pushing on the gas and breaks, the more you'll save money. Get to know your frequented routes and learn when you can coast down hills or take your foot off the gas before a stoplight. Avoid idling in parking spots or in traffic if at all possible. And take advantage of cruise control--by going a consistent speed, you'll avoid hitting the gas and breaks more frequently.

7. Park in the shade.
Did you know that gasoline evaporates? Plus, if you live in the south, leaving your car to bake in the summer sun is akin to automotive abuse. So do your car, wallet, and sweat glands a favor--seek maximum shade and walk.

With a few minor adjustments you can squeeze every dime out of your car allowance and still go the distance. Maybe even enjoy the joy ride from time to time. Drive smart to save big bucks while doing the environment a favor at the same time.