Parents: Save at the Pump!by Nicki Bradley | More from this Blogger 24 Apr 2006 02:11 PM As parents, we probably drive more than anyone else around! Between taking our kids to and from school, soccer practice, swimming class, piano and to the mall and back, our kids are relying on our transportation services to get them where they need or want to be. How do parents save during this period of sky-rocketing gas prices?
- Carpool - this is the best way for parents to save money at the pump. Take turns driving the kids where they need to go, if at all possible.
- Consolidate trips - if you can't carpool, use your time wisely by running errands while you are already out and near your shopping areas. Not only is it more time-efficient to "kill two birds with one stone" but it's more fuel efficient.
- Walk or ride a bike - there are many places such as local libraries, schools, convenience stores, movie theaters, etc that can be easily accessed via bicycle. It's fun and great exercise, saving money is just a bonus!
- Order in - although delivery-reliant services are increasing in price to compensate for the increase in gas prices, there are still great deals to be had. Order pizza delivered instead of picking it up. Some places have grocery delivery, library delivery, dairy delivery and entrée delivery.
- Keep your car well-maintained - keeping your tire pressure where it is supposed to be, your oil changed and filters replaced and your car balanced properly will all help increase your fuel efficiency.
- Don't speed - cars get the best fuel efficiency at 60 mph. Going faster might get you there more quickly but it will cost you more money in the long run. Also speedy drivers tend to tailgate more frequently leading to a higher frequency of braking. Braking nicks away at fuel efficiency.
- Don't start and stop the engine frequently - leave it running instead. Frequently turning over your engine will cost you more in fuel efficiency than simpling leaving your engine running for a few minutes while you run into the house to grab your checkbook or coat.
- Turn it off, then start the car - Turning on your vehicle with the A/C, heat, radio or other electrical devices already on decreasing fuel efficiency and it can add up.
- Just say no to SUVs - if you need a larger vehicle, go for one of the newer hybrid SUVs or trucks. Drive the most fuel efficient vehicle your family can afford. You might be surprised to see that even the smaller fuel efficient vehicles, like the Toyota Prius, can comfortably seat five plus plenty of room in the trunk.
Although gas prices are escalating again, there is no reason that you need to cut back on living life to the fullest. With a little creativity and pre-planning, you won't feel it in your pocketbook at all!
frugal, gasoline, gas costs, parenting, save
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