How to Have More Vacation Spending Money

Schools out for summer and the great American travel season is here. During the summer, most Americans take at least one extended vacation, and four fifths take that trip by automobile. Although gas prices are the lowest they been in recent years, no one likes to spend their vacation money on gasoline. While there is little to be done about the price of gas itself, there are some things the average vacationer can do to help ease the costs of auto travel.

Tune up the car. Making sure that your car is running at its best will help you achieve better gas mileage. Clean or replace the air filters. In addition to tuning up your car, you should also check to make sure that your tires are inflated to their proper pressure. This will also give you piece of mind since you will know your car is in tip top shape.

Other small things that can help with gas mileage are keeping your luggage inside of your vehicle, if possible. Bicycles, luggage, and canoes tied on top create additional air resistance, which increases gas consumption.

Make sure that your air conditioner works properly. While the use of your air conditioner increases gas consumption, gas mileage is actually better than driving with your windows open.

If you have a credit card that offers a cashback bonus, such as the Chase Freedom card, use that for gas purchases instead of debit card. The Chase Freedom card offers 5% cash back on gasoline purchases. However, some gas stations offer a lower price if you pay cash. If that's the case, then pay cash.

Shop around. The gas stations closest to the Interstate may not have the lowest prices. You might save a bit by purchasing your gas a bit further from the highway.

Drive at or near the speed limit. Most cars get better gas mileage at 55 miles per hour than they do at 70. Also, brake appropriately. Many people wait until the last second to slam on their brakes at a stop light or stop sign. If you coast for a distance and let the car slow down on its own, it will improve gas mileage. Then, when you go to leave from a stop, don’t immediately hit the gas. The car will start to move forward slightly and accelerating slowly will also improve gas mileage. If you get stuck in traffic, leave some distance between cars so that you aren’t applying the brakes and gas constantly. Coasting is your friend! If possible, plan routes around big cities to prevent getting stuck in traffic in the first place.

Shop around before you travel. There are several Websites, such as GasPriceWatch.com, that can show you gas prices throughout your travel route. There are also some apps out there, such as Gas Buddy that show nearby gas stations and prices that are updated by users.

Each of the items listed above will offer slight savings in the price of gasoline or in gas consumption. The effect of each one may be small, but the cumulative effect should be noticeable. And every penny you save on gas is a penny you can spend on a memorable souvenir instead.

#travel #automobile #cars #savings