Frugal Friday: Saving Money on Gas
With the gas prices on the rise, it’s time to brainstorm some ways we can all save money on gas.
1. Car Pool
If you drive to work like millions do, try to car pool to cut down on the amount of gas you would all use separately. Often times finding someone in the same town as you to drive to the city can make a huge difference. Even friends that work close by can ride in together.
2. Take Turns for School
How many trips a day do you make taking the kids to school and picking them up? You’d be surprised how fast those miles add up even if you only live a short distance from the school. We don’t even live a mile away, and we drive about 30-40 miles a week (sometimes more, depending on the day and who needs picked up at what time). Even in a car that gets at least 20 MPG, that’s still $5-6 spent a week on gas. That’s nearly $200 a school year! Now imagine if your car doesn’t get good mileage, or if you live farther from the school. It could easily be two or three times as much.
You can cut the cost in half by car pooling your kids. Have a near by friend pick them up one week, and you the next.
3. Stay In For Lunch
No matter if you stay at home or work full time, we tend to spend gas going out to eat. If you can walk to the nearest restaurant, do that instead. Or else try staying in more often. Not only will you be saving money on gas, but money on food as well.
4. Double Up Work Hours
If possible, have a chat with your boss to see if you can double up on your hours and work less days. Many people work 10 hour days only 4 days a week, saving them an entire day of driving.
5. Work From Home or Closer To Home
Again have a chat with your boss to see if it’s possible to do your job from home a few days a week. You might also want to sit down and do the math to see just how much it costs you to work. What do you REALLY earn a month after paying for gas, daycare, and lunch? It’s possible that working could be COSTING you money if your commute is too far.
These are just a few tips to save you money on your gas. If you have tips to share, please leave us some comments!
