Gas Prices are Through the Roof (Article)

June 6, 2022
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Gas Prices are Through the Roof

According to AAA, the average cost of a gallon of regular gasoline in the US on June 1, 2022, was $4.671.   This is 53% higher than it was a year ago.  This increase has a major impact on most family budgets.  Here are a few tips to keep your fuel cost down

  1. Make a plan. Instead of making multiple trips, try to organize your day in a way that cuts down on extra miles.  For instance, pick up groceries on the way home from dropping the kids off at a friend’s house.  When you’re shopping, make sure you have a list so you don’t have to drive back to the store to pick up the milk the kids need for their cereal in the morning.
  2. Be strategic. Sitting in traffic is boring, but it is also a potentially huge waste of gas.  If you’re sitting still with the motor running, you are burning fuel.  And it doesn’t make sense to turn your car on and off repeatedly in stop-and-go traffic.  If its hot out, the fuel waste is even greater because you are likely running your air conditioning since you don’t have any breeze blowing through the windows.   Use apps like Google Maps to help you avoid traffic delays.  If possible, try to avoid the times that are the worst on the highway.  Maybe you can start your workday earlier (or later) to avoid rush hour.
  3. Drive the speed limit. All the highway MPG numbers given by automakers assume you are traveling 55 MPH on the highway.  AAA estimates reducing highway speeds by 5 – 10 MPH can reduce your fuel consumption by 14%.  Additionally, according to Edmunds, using cruise control can also decrease your fuel consumption by 14%.
  4. Keep up on your maintenance. Having a properly maintained vehicle not only adds life to your ride it also helps it run more efficiently.  Keep your tires rotated, your oil changed, your air filters clean, and make sure your tires are fully inflated.
  5. Stay home. If your job allows you to work remotely consider doing this a few times a week.  If your weekend plans typically involve travel to find adventure, do some online research and find some exciting spots that are closer.  Or maybe download your local library app and enjoy a day of relaxing with a good book.
  6. Incorporate your commute into your exercise plan. Depending on how far you live from your job, you may be able to skip your cardio workout for the day and jump on a bike or walk to work.  You’ll save on gas and your health will thank you too.

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