Gas prices have been surging in recent years due to inflation and supply chain issues exacerbated by the pandemic. The situation further escalated with the war in Ukraine, which caused the price of oil, and therefore gas, to jump significantly. These past few years, the United States witnessed record-breaking gas prices, surpassing previous highs such as those seen after the 2008 financial crisis.
So if you're wondering how to deal with these high gas prices, you are not alone. While there’s no way to completely avoid paying more at the pump, there are strategies you can use to save on gas and ease the financial strain.
Save on Gas
- Use a gas rewards card. Getting cash back on gas is one of the best perks offered by rewards credit cards. Some cards provide 3% to 5% cash back on gas purchases. However, ensure that any annual fees or higher prices charged for using the card don’t negate your savings.
- Use cash. Many gas stations offer lower prices for cash purchases. Keep an eye out for these stations, and try to carry cash when it’s time to fill up. This simple switch can lead to noticeable savings over time.
- Maintain your car properly. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, get regular oil changes, and address any warning lights promptly. Routine maintenance can improve your car’s fuel efficiency, extending the miles you get per gallon and reducing long-term costs.
Research Gas Prices
Finding cheaper gas stations is a proactive way to manage costs. Here’s how:
- Use gas comparison apps. Apps like GasBuddy, Waze, or AAA’s gas tool can help you identify the best local gas prices.
- Check Google Maps or Waze. Both platforms allow you to quickly locate nearby gas stations and compare their prices. Make note of the stations with consistently lower prices and monitor them for changes.
Change Your Driving Habits
Adjusting your driving habits can make a big difference in how much you spend on gas. While these changes might require some effort, they can yield substantial savings:
- Walk or bike when possible. Walking or biking instead of driving is one of the most straightforward ways to save on gas. It’s also great for your health and the environment.
- Carpool. Sharing rides with friends, family, or coworkers reduces the number of vehicles on the road, which helps everyone involved save on gas costs.
- Take public transportation. If you live in a city with reliable public transit options, consider using buses, trains, or subways for your commute. Public transportation is often significantly cheaper than driving.
- Adjust your driving style. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, as they use more gas. Instead, drive at a steady pace and keep your speed within the limit. Also, avoid idling for long periods—turn off your engine if you’ll be parked for a while.
- Plan your routes. Research the most fuel-efficient routes to your destinations. Whether it’s your daily commute or a long road trip, finding shorter or less congested routes can help you save on gas.
Takeaway
Gas is a necessary expense for most of us, but there are ways to mitigate the impact of high prices. By learning about your local gas prices, adjusting your driving habits, and exploring alternative transportation options, you can reduce your gas expenses. The strategies you adopt during periods of high prices can continue to save you money even when prices go down, keeping more cash in your wallet over the long term.