Summer is the perfect time for a road trip, but with the high price of gas, you may think it’s out of your reach. Don’t rule a road trip out just yet. Analysts say gas prices may have hit their peak and are expected to drop. In the meantime, there are plenty of ways to save a few bucks if you plan on taking a road trip this summer.
As seen in the Chicago Tribune, here are some tips to consider before hitting the road:
Check your tire pressure – You can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by simply keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure, according to Fueleconomy.gov. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the proper level of inflation and be sure to check the tire pressure when the tires are cold, meaning they haven’t been driven on for three or more hours.
Slow Down – Gas mileage typically decreases at speeds above 60 miles per hour, according to Fueleconomy.gov.
Skip the toll-booth line – A monthly E-ZPass subscription will keep you out of long lines, saving you idling time and gas. The electronic toll-collection system is offered on most toll roads, bridges and tunnels across 14 states from Maine to Virginia and west to Illinois. SunPass is the equivalent in Florida and FasTrak is in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Use the right oil – You can boost your gas mileage by 1 or 2 percent by using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil, according to Fueleconomy.gov. Look for oil that says “energy conserving” or “resource conserving” on the API performance symbol to help improve fuel economy.
Fill it up with regular – Most vehicles that call for premium fuel can run on regular just fine, according to Cars.com, which can save you money. However, some cars do require premium fuel, so before you fill up, check your owner’s manual to find out if the higher-priced gas is required or just recommended.
Road trips are made for summer, so don’t let gas prices scare you away. Following these tips can help save you money this summer and keep your road trip stress-free.
