Tips to Save Money at the Gas Pump

Money is tight for most people, and they need to find ways to cut back on their usual expenses, including gas and groceries. This is especially true as the prices of gas continue to rise. You need to find ways to save when you can.

If you are looking for ways to save money at the gas pump, here are ways that you can do so.

Drive responsibly.

Though you may not realize it, the way that you drive can affect your gas mileage. If you are known to drive erratically (speeding and braking quickly), your gas mileage may be higher than it needs to be. In fact, you can decrease the gas mileage by up to forty percent if you slow down and drive at a better pace. This means that you will be buying gas less often.

Skip the premium gas (unless your vehicle needs it).

Though you may think that your car needs premium gas, most cars don't. So, instead of actually making a difference, you are just spending more money at the pumps than you need to.

Fill up on a weekday.

Many people find out their car is low on gas, and they simply drive to the gas station, no matter what day it is. The truth is that gas is more expensive on the weekends (Friday included). In fact, the best day to buy gas may be on Monday.

Join a membership club.

You may want to join Sams, BJs, or Costco. Even with a membership fee, the cheaper gas just might be worth it! In fact, they may be the cheapest gas around. Even if it takes a few fill-ups to pay off your membership fee, it might be the best decision that you could make.

Or even just get a bonus card through your grocery store.

Many grocery stores, such as Giant and even Kroger, may offer you points with each purchase. You can use this toward a discount on gas. You may even get a discount with your first purchase.

Your local convenience stores may also have a card that you can use.

Many convenient stores offer the same bonuses. You may get points for everything that you buy in there, making it cheaper at the pump. You may even be able to save on the items that you already buy, which will also help you to save money.

Price shop online.

Many smartphones and apps will help you find the cheapest gas in the area. Even when you aren't close to home, you can still search for the best place to fill up. There are other apps, like GasBuddy, which can help you look for a deal when it comes to filling up.

Though you may not even consider it, the way that you drive can affect your gas mileage. If you drive responsibly, you can save money because you won't have to fill up your car as often. So, take your time when you start driving and try to avoid hard braking.

You should also avoid using premium gas unless your car requires it. Otherwise, you are just wasting your money. You may also want to join a membership club to help you save money. You may notice that their gas is the cheapest, so it may be worth the added membership cost.

If you don't want to buy a membership, don't forget to ask about bonus cards at your local grocery and convenience stores. Many offer points that can be put toward a certain amount of money off at the pumps. So, you are getting what you need at the store while continuing to save money at the pumps!