The Frugal Free Gal

Summer is here! Will you be traveling anywhere special? Taking the family on a vacation? Or do you just drive a lot to and from work daily?

If so, you will definitely want to start looking into ways to save on gas (especially with gas prices on the rise these days).

Thankfully, your search will be a short one because I compiled ten great ways to save on gas all right here!

Use one or use them all–your wallet will thank you.

How to Save Money on Gas

1. Use a Gas Rewards Card

Does your local grocery or convenience story offer a gas rewards card? If so, use it! You might as well save a little extra money by buying all of the items you use and love anyway.

Download the Upside app to save even more! Upside is a free cash back app that users can earn up to 25¢/gallon cash back on gas.

2. Compare Prices

In my town, there are certain gas stations that are routinely less expensive than others or that always wait longer to raise their prices.

I’m guessing the same thing happens where you live. Find out which stations do this and make those the ones you visit regularly.

If you aren’t sure which stations have the best prices, there are apps that can help you.

3. Drive the Speed Limit

Driving fast may be fun and save time, but it will can cost you big in fuel savings.

Stay around the speed limit on the highway for maximum fuel efficiency. (And you might just save yourself the cost of a speeding ticket as well!)

4. Brake Cautiously

Every time you brake, you waste the momentum your car already has and force it to use more gas to accelerate again.

While you will definitely want to brake when needed to avoid a crash, giving the car in front of you plenty of room can help reduce the number of times you have to brake.

5. Keep Your Tires Inflated

Underinflated tires can really reduce your car’s fuel efficiency. Check your car’s tire pressure regularly, especially before you head out on long trip.

6. Combine Trips

It can be easy to find yourself making several trips all over town to pick up everything you need.

Save yourself time and money by keeping a running list and then simply making one big trip or picking up items while you are out anyway.

7. Warm Your Car Just Enough

Getting in a toasty warm car in the morning may be nice, but warm your car for too long and all you’ll do is burn through your fuel.

Warming your car for a minute or two is fine, but don’t leave it running for an extended period of time while you get ready.

8. Carpool

Do your friends, family members or co-workers live nearby?

Instead of all driving separately to each event, consider going together. Not only can this be a lot of fun, but it can save you big in fuel costs as well.

9. Travel Light

If you will be spending several days away from home, if you’re traveling a long distance or if you’re traveling with children, it can be tempting to pack everything you own.

Resist the urge. The heavier your car is, the more drag it will create and the more fuel it will take to keep it running.

10. Fill Up Early

Gas prices often spike right before holidays. Don’t get caught paying top dollar. Fill up in advance so you can get the same amount of gas for less money.

Related: How to Save Money When Traveling By Car

Do you plan on traveling for spring break or summer vacation? How will you keep your fuel and other travel expenses low?