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For many people, embarking on a road trip to their vacation destination can be a more affordable means of transportation when compared to other travel options. But, besides saving money on things like airline tickets or baggage fees, there are some other ways to save that may not have crossed your mind. Check out these four tips that can help you save as you get ready to head out on your next road trip:
Stopping for snacks and meals during a road trip can be expensive, especially when you are with the entire family. Consider skipping some of the fast food pit stops and bring snacks and drinks along for the car ride instead, recommends Business Insider. If you’d like to bring any refrigerated items along, or want to keep bottled water or soda cold, place them in a cooler filled with ice — then change out the ice as needed when you stop off at a gas station to fuel up.
Instead of waiting until the last minute to pack for your trip, get a head start so you can determine what you need ahead of time. This way, you can avoid last-minute shopping trips when you reach your destination. For example, if you’re headed to the beach, you’ll likely need sunscreen, towels or a beach bag. Consider packing these types of essentials ahead of time, as Business Insider says that the same items could be more expensive once you reach your vacation destination. Knowing what you need prior to leaving may also give you time to seek out sales when buying any items you need.
If you don’t have a preference or a specific window for taking your trip, you may be able to save some money by traveling during a non-peak time of year, according to U.S. News and World Report (U.S. News). Some of the most popular travel times include around holidays or during summer and winter break. By avoiding these peak travel times, you may be able to score hotel or rental accommodations for less, says U.S. News. But, keep in mind that depending on where you’re headed, some activities or events may be limited based on seasonality.
Driving habits like stopping and accelerating suddenly, and how fast you drive, may have a negative impact on your car’s fuel economy. In fact, frequent hard braking or accelerating may reduce your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by up to 3 miles per gallon, says Consumer Reports. You may be able to help improve gas mileage by avoiding hard braking and accelerating when possible. Additionally, FuelEconomy.gov states that gas mileage can decrease once a vehicle reaches speeds of 50 miles per hour or more. Ensure you’re following the speed limit at all times and consider using cruise control, which can also help improve fuel efficiency.
Planning ahead for your next road trip may help alleviate some financial stress. Remember these tips as you plan so you can focus more on making memories with family and friends, and less on breaking the bank.
Originally published on May 8, 2011.
The post Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Road Trip appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
A road trip can be a good way to visit new places without having to pay for a plane ticket, but the cost of gas can also add up. A little planning may help you get more for your gas money. Consider these tips to help maximize your fuel economy before you leave for your next road trip.
Regardless of how far you’re traveling, it’s important to make sure your car is properly maintained. Consider getting a tune-up before beginning your road trip. Having a faulty oxygen sensor diagnosed and repaired or simply inflating your tires to the recommended pressure may result in improved mileage, according to FuelEconomy.gov.
In addition, take a look at your owner’s manual to learn what grade of motor oil is recommended for your vehicle. Using the type of oil suggested by the manufacturer may help improve your gas mileage, FuelEconomy.gov says.
Gas prices can vary based on a number of factors, including location, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. That means that you may notice a range of gas prices along your route. Mobile apps or websites that track prices at multiple gas stations may help you find lower priced gasoline when it’s time to fill up, Popular Mechanics suggests.
If you map out your road trip ahead of time, you can get an idea of how many miles you’ll travel — and if you know roughly how many miles you typically get to a gallon of gas, you may be able to estimate what you’ll pay for gasoline. Keep in mind, though, that your road trip might involve more than a direct drive from point A to point B. Be sure to account for additional miles (and gas costs) that might result from sightseeing and other detours along the way.
Idling can also lead to wasted gas, FuelEconomy.gov says. Before you leave, or during stops along your route, consider using a mobile app to check for traffic delays. Choosing an alternative route may help you avoid backups and therefore prevent your car from idling and wasting gas.
Cars typically get better mileage on highways than on city roads, where more frequent braking and accelerating can use more gas. AutoTrader says. That doesn’t mean faster is better, though. Many cars get fewer miles per gallon when traveling more than 50 miles per hour, FuelEconomy.gov says. The website suggests following the speed limit and using cruise control when driving on highways to help moderate speed and get better mileage.
Before you depart for your next road trip, consider taking some steps to help your car get better mileage. As a result, you may get a bit further on your tank of gas, leaving you with more time and money to enjoy the journey.
Originally published on March 5, 2014.
The post How to Make the Most of Your Gas Money on a Road Trip appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
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