3 Ways to Conserve Gas

Gas prices seem to fluctuate lately, but recently they have gone back up to prices that some of us simply just can not afford. We are all looking for ways to cut down on using gas for the benefit of our wallets and the benefit of the environment. Since it is now the fall season and heading into winter we won't be taking those long shore vacations in which we need to spend around $100 a week on gas for those daily trips, but we will be using the car more often to get to places when it's cold out. Here are some simple ways to cut down on the amount you pay for gas and the amount of gas you use.

1. Walk the short distances. This point is like killing two birds with one stone. In the winter and fall I know it's always cold and rainy or snowy, but if you can make it there walking, take the walk. You'll get some exercise and cut down on those short trips that can eat up gas when you have to turn the car off and on a few times. Make it a challenge to walk to any place that is under a mile away and you'll see big returns in your leg muscles as well as in your bank account.

2. Carpool everywhere. Chances are that if you're heading somewhere, someone else you know is going too, and chances are they live generally close to where you live. Instead of taking two separate cars to dinner or to work or to any activity, such as your kids basketball and soccer games, carpool. Parents are saved time when their kids can carpool and if you only have to drive once a week to practices and games instead of five times, you'll save at least a quarter of a tank. If you carpool to work, the best bet is to take a week at a time rather than every other day, just so you won't get your schedules confused.

3. Turn your car off. I know it's getting cold and if you're out in a parking lot waiting for someone or out in the driveway waiting for someone you want to keep the car on to keep the heat on or to listen to the radio. It's not that unreasonable to ask for you to shut the car off while waiting. Sure it won't save you a ton of gas but let's face it, every little bit helps.