Hit the Road Without Breaking the Bank: Money-Saving Tips for Drivers

As the 4th of July weekend approaches, many of us are gearing up for a well-deserved road trip. But with gas prices on the rise, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of our fuel economy. The good news is that with a few simple tweaks to your driving habits and car maintenance, you can save money on the road and still have a blast.

Before You Hit the Road

Before you embark on your journey, make sure your tires are properly inflated. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this simple step can improve gas mileage by more than 3%, leading to savings of up to 11 cents per gallon. You can find the proper tire pressure for your car on a sticker on the driver’s side door, in the glove box, or in the car’s manual.

Another way to save is to use the proper grade of motor oil for your engine, which can save up to seven cents per gallon. It’s a small change that can add up to big savings over time.

Behind the Wheel

Once you’re on the road, your driving habits can have a big impact on your fuel economy. Aggressive driving, such as speeding or braking hard, can lower your gas mileage by up to 33%. Every 5 miles per hour over 50 miles per hour can cost an extra 25 cents per gallon. Slowing down can also keep you and your loved ones safer on the road.

One way to stay consistent with your speed and maximize savings is to use cruise control on the highway. And while you might have some luggage for your travels, remember that too much extra weight can impact your wallet. Every extra 100 pounds in your car can reduce your miles per gallon by 1% to 2%.

More Tips for Saving

When you’re stopped, make sure you turn your car off instead of letting it run idle, as that can cost you one to three cents per minute in fuel. If your family has more than one car, pick the most fuel-efficient one to hit the road with. And finally, consider carpooling or using public transportation to reduce your fuel costs even further.

Opt for a fuel-efficient vehicle to save even more on your road trip.

By following these simple tips, you can save money on the road and still have a blast on your 4th of July weekend getaway. Happy travels!

A well-planned road trip can be a fun and affordable way to explore new destinations.