Editor's Note: We selected our winner and will announce the results after the holiday weekend. Thanks for all of your great tips and comments.
With gas around $3.50 a gallon, and the long Memorial Day holiday weekend right around the corner, it’s getting tough to fill the tank.
Patch feels your pain and we want to help, even if it’s just a little bit. So we’re giving away a $50 gas card in the hopes that we can make life better for one lucky person.
Entering this contest is easy. All you have to do is post a comment below this article to tell us about one thing you’re doing differently to save money on gas (or to save on other things so you can afford gas). There’s no need to write a lot. Just a sentence or two will do!
We’ll conduct a random drawing from among the comments entered by noon on May 25.
* Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia who are 18 and older. * To enter, post a comment on this story.* All entries must be received by May 25, 2012, 12:00pm Eastern Time.* You may enter once.* 1 winner will be selected in a random drawing.* One (1) Grand Prize Winner will receive a $50 gift card.* Click Here for complete Official Rules.
sharon gallagher
6:58 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Love the article above. I probably like many have tried to save gas by not going far. I enjoy going to thrift shops in and around town however mainly limit it to Sarasota now. Thanks Patch!!
Chris Whitaker
7:10 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
https://www.winndixie.com/SR/fuelperks/Default.aspx - Winn Dixie Fuel Perks is an easy way! Check it out.
harmonyfb
7:10 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
There are no unnecessary trips anymore - and we're economizing in other ways, as well. However, it's still kind of surreal when I look at gas prices and remember that in my youth, they were under 30 cents/gallon.
Stone Handy
7:24 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I try to stay within ten miles of home and meet all my shopping needs in one trip.
Christine Tsotsos
7:27 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Not only is the contest fun, but the gas saving hints posted here can be a public service too. My favorite way to save gas is to ride my bike if I want to go somewhere locally. If I'm not planning to buy something heavy that requires a car trunk, I can use my backpack and just bike to my destination.
Another gas saving tip that everyone can do is pick up (Walmart has this product) Lucas fuel additive...a skinny bottle that costs about 5 bucks. It advertises as a tune up in a bottle. My friend's husband is an auto mechanic at Sears. They have gallons of this product and use it all the time charging customers lots of money when they do. Pour the Lucas product into the gas tank (you can buy a bigger bottle and measure the correct amount) with a full tank of gas. You'll increase your miles per gallon.
Paul Twargoski
7:32 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I try to combine stops and make sure my tires are inflated to right pressure. Also, keep up with oil changes so auto runs efficiently.
Therese Sutton
7:33 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
To save some gas money, I try to not use my air conditioning when I drive. I have a convertible so it is an easy way to cool off and enjoy the beautiful view also while being economical. I also shop around for the best gas price even if it is a few pennies difference, it all adds up in the long run :)
Annmarie DiPasqua Weeks
7:44 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I try to make fewer stops doing while errands, frequenting business or strip malls where I can get most of my errands done in one location. I use my car air conditioning sparingly, opening the windows instead when driving locally (on the highway, though, it is better to run the AC than open the windows for your gas conservation...or so I've read).
patty
7:45 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
me and my family started to do local things we walk down by the water and walk thru all the painted houses in downtown
lawrence jones
8:19 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Use car less, drive slower, use windows instead of ac
JaaaaaaayBeeeeeeeeee
8:18 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
To cut the overall average price you pay for gas ... simple tip .... when the price is higher only do a partial fill. As the price drops, fill that tank to the top.
Stock up while it is cheaper ... a basic premise used by many shoppers for many products.
In the long haul, it is guaranteed that you will pay less than the average price paid for gas vs filling it up everytime.
I have a gas station very close to home that is usually the benchmark for some of the lower prices in the area. As I travel locallywhile doing my work, I keep an eye out for other stations that may beat them, and they will get my business that day. If not, and I need to buy gas, it is easy to fill up as I return home.
Joy Kobasko
8:19 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
To save money on fuel, I combine my errands whenever possible, so they don't end up becoming separate trips. Also, I do a lot of shopping at Winn-Dixie, which has the Fuelperks! program (not to sound like a commercial for them, but they give you credit towards your next fuel fillup for every $50 in groceries purchased). The little purchases can add up quickly!
Samantha H
8:20 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
We have downsized to one car, and thankfully my husband works locally so he rides a bike to work. We make sure when we need to go out we prioritize our errands to do at once instead of multiple journeys.
sheri scalesci
8:31 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Any free gas would be a help...all we do is put gas in our truck...Really hurts to spend so much on gas...good luck to all
Budd
8:34 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I was working part time down on West Shore and decided to "retire" early. From the cost of gas and wear and tear on my vehicle, I think it will be a cost savings in the long run. I'll miss the little extra money from working, but I guess I'll look for something closer to home when the honey-do list is done.
Debbie
8:34 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Don't drive when I can walk
Vickie Verhoff
8:47 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Hi Everyone, I always try to have all my errands finished in one round trip. Makes a big difference.
VouvraySec
8:48 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Two tried-and-true ways to save on gas (1) fill-up early in the morning when the temperatures are coolest. Over the course of the day, the sun heats the tanks under the fuel pumps and causing expansion; and (2) squeeze the pump so that the gas exits the nozzle slowly. The less disruption to the gasoline the more condensed it will remain.
Eric
8:48 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I started a car pool club at work and we have about 40 people on board. We save on gas every week, which is great for our wallets and lesser vehicles on the road!! ! Its a win win situation!
Victoria Colflesh
8:59 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
My husband started telecommuting two days a week and carpooling the other three. We combine our errands.
pam
9:00 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Use Winn Dixie pharmacy coupon for 1.00 off gas with new prescription- my car wont hold 20 gal. so I take a gas can and after filling the car I put the rest in the gas can take it home and put it in when I need gas again. Also wait until I am going by the gas station on another errand.
Bryan Gifford
9:05 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
We formed a carpool with the neighbors to Learning Gate. We are saving about 30 miles a day with that! That adds up real fast (about $40 a week in savings)
Who is WILLIAM BINNEY?
9:06 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
We started a backyard garden.......saving money AND better food.
We hang dry the majority of our clothes, saving $$$$$ and the life of our dryer.
We unplug everything not being used in house to save on electricity.
FYI: We have a family of 6..........a large house with a pool and our electric bill was 143.00 last month. Simply unplugging appliances, lights, tv's.....whatever NOT in use......unplug and you WILL save money.
We also stock up on many things. We purchased an additional freezer to fill with extra food. Whenever there are BYGO offers, we go a little crazy and purchase the maximum allowed. I remember how often we would run to the store for a loaf of bread or toilet paper, now we do not have to do that.................we simply walk into the garage. :-)
Not that this has anything to do with saving $$$$, but it is saving........we compost our kitchen scraps. We also recycle. Since implementing both, for a family of six, many weeks, we only have 2 bags of garbage. Not only our we "helping the environment," the backyard garden LOVES it!.
While driving, I turn off the AC when I accelerate away from a stop. The vehicle uses a lot less fuel when you do this and I definitely echo the comments by VouvraySec.
Karen Taylor
9:08 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I try to combine errand trips and try not to drive unless I have to.
Shannon Young
9:08 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I am definitely combining trips, stopping for things on the way home so I cut down on unnecessary driving. If the weather is OK I drive with the window open instead of usinig the air conditioning.
Amanda Derosa
9:09 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I only stop at stores on my path to and from work.
Who is WILLIAM BINNEY?
9:11 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Wanted to add.............most see the prices increasing and believe "gas" or rather, oil is increasing.....wrong.
The main culprit behind the increase in gas prices IS the increase in the money supply via a lax Congress and the Federal Reserve........which is as Federal as Federal Express.
Take a look at the money supply...........they've inflated it........increased the amount to double what it was a decade ago........which coincides with our prices......nearly everything has doubled in the last 10 years.
PRICES NEVER GO UP, THE DOLLAR ONLY GOES DOWN.
The Federal Reserve was implemented in 1913.........since then, they have nearly destroyed the purchasing power of the dollar by nearly 99%.
Prices don't increase, OUR purchasing power decreases. They claim they haven't raised taxes...........well increasing the money supply IS a tax on us.........just look at the prices of everything.........The inflation tax is a tax.....one we all experience.
Michael
9:25 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I use the Winn Dixie discount on gas as much as I can. You get credit toward gas depending on certain foods you buy. I also walk when possible. And dont sit in the car with the a.c. running while a friend or family member is inside a store. Thank You , take care
Lynne
9:25 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Sometimes walking or bicycling is a healthy wealthy conservative alternative for me to the ridiculously high gas prices plus being a wise comparison price shopper not to unnecessarily spend otherwise is always a cost conscious penny and time saving thing I do.
Monte
9:25 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I am riding my bike whenever possible instead of driving. It's great exercise and saves me gas!!
Jeanne Benjamin
9:25 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I just drive to and from work :(
lisa
9:27 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
i try to be strategic about running errands, drive with the AC off, and keep the car maintained (oil changes, tune ups). and of course, winning a gas gift card helps too!
Cat Tunick-Cabeche
9:33 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Combine all my errands. I know the gas stations in the area that has the lowest prices. Have a stick, so that gives me more MPG. Would love to win a gas gift card!
D L
9:34 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I use the fuel perks program from winn dixie and the occasional $10 off $40 gas card specials at Publix. Thanks for the giveaway!
krista harman
9:34 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
We've been driving with the windows down, enjoying the beautiful weather!! Also, car pooling to work with my husband once a week!
WASTING TIME ON PATCH
9:37 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I purchase Walmart gift cards to save an extra .03 cents per gallon @ the Gas Stations @ Walmart. I use the fuel perks program from W/D and the occasional $10 off $50 gas card specials @ Publix as well.
Lori
9:48 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
We plan our errands so that we have a route when going to the doctor etc, maintain the vehicle and tires,don't use the air conditioning in the car. In addition we cut coupons to save money on groceries, shop only the sales, have given up going out to eat as often to save money, grow a garden of fresh vegetables. I don't find we save that much at Winn-Dixie with the fuel perks if you consider the price you pay for the item. Many items have gone up by as much as a dollar in comparison to Save a Lot, or Dollar General stores. In the longrun I don't feel we actually save money on the fuel perks. We also plan meals and stick to a budget. Keep the air conditioning on 80 during the day, and use the pool to cool off.
Barb G
10:02 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Publix frequently has coupons in their flyer - You buy a certian amont of groceries - $30. - $50. - and you can purchase a $50. gas card for $40. That's a 20% savings! We carpool, combine errands and bike to some events. Every little bit helps!
Pamela Petrusky
10:04 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I just don't go to many places and try to plan every trip! Thanks patch!
Autumn
10:09 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I ride my bike to get groceries as often as possible, and carpool at least two days a week!
Scott Hine
10:09 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I haven't had a raise in over 3 years. My wife lost her job. So I can't afford to take my family anywhere anymore. I drive to work and to the grocery store, and that's pretty much it.. Scott
Chris Taylor
10:11 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Thanks for all of the tips so far. Sounds like a lot of you are working hard to drive "smarter." I don't do that very well. Maybe it's time to start!
Scott Hine
10:12 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I haven't had a raise in over 3 years. My wife lost her job. So I can't afford to take my family anywhere anymore. I drive to work and to the grocery store, and that's pretty much it..
Russell
10:13 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I drive a Prius as well as carpool to both my kids schools.
Sharmi Philip
10:15 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I ride my back to work and anywhere within a couple miles of my house.
Jeanene Arrington- Fisher
10:23 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Lots of car-pooling, keeping the "Adventure Mobile" all tuned up and air pressure correct in tires!
Liz Flynn
10:23 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Carpool and walk if I can :)
T F
10:42 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
We have reduced our errand trips to 2x per week and ride our bikes whenever we can. By reducing our fuel usage by staying home, we save money by not spending on other things as well as spending more time together as a family
Jessica A
10:47 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I cut back on eating out and no longer take "joy ride" trips to stores or places that are more than 10 miles away. I 've learned to enjoy my community more!
David Chmielewski
10:57 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I drive my motorcycle a lot more when I can!
Carole L. Murrey
11:00 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I do many of the already mentioned tips like consolidate errands/trips, partial fills when price is high and fill up when price gets lower, check tire pressure, keep close to home, and drive defensively.
Richard
11:12 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I started walking to save a lot and the dollar store on 49th and the produce stand on 22nd .I only drive to doctors appointments
I bought a wagon and pull my laundry to suzys suds.the joy of living in gulfport is everythings in walking distance,and you actually get to meet people.
Kalani M J
11:12 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
All of my changes I made to save money has only made things better for me. I use to spend a lot of money on uneccessary things, so high gas prices have challenged me to be a wiser spender and learn how to save more money in the long run.
I drive slower and don't mash the gas to drive fast quickly anymore. (good for everyone) we wash our clothes in cold water and use detergent recommended for cold washing. We unplug electronics when not in use. I bring my own food to work for breakfast in lunch. Bringing my own food to work alone has saved me over $300 minimum. I literally would stop for breakfast every day (even if I was able to eat breakfast at home, I would stop to get coffee or frappuccino). I would also eat lunch out daily. My husband calculated that I spent $650 one month alone in eating out. Sounds insane but you don't realize that $10-$20 a day is expensive! My husband is now thrilled that I have started to bring my own lunch and breakfast to work.
Another great thing we do now is cook from scratch. It's definitely healthier and it's least expensive. We use to buy a lot of quick fix meals and frozen items to cook on the go because we were never home as much. Now that we don't drive around as much, we have the time to cook good hearty meals. High gas prices have definitely helped me in many ways to better myself and my family but it will be nice when the prices come back down :)
We just plan on sticking to our new lifestyle (saving more) when the prices do drop.
Douglas Berger
11:14 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I bought a motorcycle. So now i commute to work with it and get 60 MPG. Saving me $250 per month..... D
Christine Panobianco
11:22 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I try to fill up half a tank as gas goes up and full tank as gas goes down. I try to do all my shopping on one trip or on the way home to avoid heading back out again to save gas and i use coupons and look for sales.
chuck
11:30 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
I plan a route when I drive to combine several errands into one trip. I also car pool with neighbors when we shop.
Chris Whitaker
11:30 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Also I recently re-joined Sam's Club. Member's usually save .05 cents a gallon on gas. You can also go once a month and buy all your paper products at one time. If you drink bottled water - they sell a 35 pack for $3.98 which beats the other 24 packs at avg $4.99.
Alessandra Da Pra
11:44 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
Bink said :"by becoming a one-vehicle family - walking to local stores and establishments, combining errands into one trip, driving at optimal fuel-efficiency speeds, and making sure the car is in top condition - including tire pressure."
Jennifer
11:49 am on Monday, May 21, 2012
My husband and I were laid off 3 years ago due to the housing fallout at a mortgage company. We lost our home, our savings and almost everything else. We moved to the Tampa Bay area in hopes of finding work but still struggle to make ends meet. I have become really good at finding grocery sales and along with coupons really am able to keep food costs down. A $50 gas card would be a great blessing:)
Lanny Zeigel
12:14 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
instead of keeping my car running durning my lunch break at work, I now turn my car off and it my sandwich while listening to the radio... Basically I sacrifice no A/C, but I save on the gas..
Peyton C.
12:42 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I group my errands that are near each other and pick one day during the week to run them. This helps conserve both time and gas.
Louise
12:50 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I try to combine any Grocery or appt. trips together. I don't run the air when I can. I park and walk to pick up my child from school after work the lines can take up 20 minutes waiting. Car pool with friends for get togethers. Check air in tires. Every little bit helps.
Farrel Hansen
12:52 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
As a local pet sitter, I've found it hard to keep prices affordable for the loving pet lovers out there. I TRY to avoid major streets to keep myself out of traffic, leading to less time stuck at traffic lights wasting gas. Thanks for this opportunity!
Bettsi Hernandez
1:19 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I have my kids ride the bus to school so that I do not have to drive them and I try to only go to the store once a week. Also I coupon to cut back on grocery expenses so that way I have more money for gas.
Alessandra Da Pra
1:34 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
Paul Godvin said: "SOUTH TAMPA-HYDE PARK PATCH PEOPLE.....a good tip ..Saving money on gas is very easy....(just shop...travel...and explore SOUTH TAMPA....99.9 % of everything you need is right in' your backyard' !!!"
K.Overton
1:46 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I have had to give up trips to Starbucks and I try to always stay under the speed limit and do my shopping during off hours so I am not sitting in Bruce B. Downs afternoon traffic.
Kim Williams Strommer
2:02 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I do try to do all my errands in one trip. We are a one income household. I don't work because my daughter has Leukemia and has to go weekly to receive her chemotherapy...along with all the specialists that she has to see, as well. It's exhausting and has made me dislike driving so much. I try to stay home as much as possible. And that is usually best for her anyway.
Amy F
2:10 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
Walking more, combining all errands into one trip, and driving the smaller more fuel efficient car on weekends.
Kaisa Puhle
2:14 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
Make sure that the air pressure in your tires is to specifications. Over filled or under filled tires can affect your gas mileage!
Carol M
2:19 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
IF IT IS LESS THAN 5 MILES, I BIKE IT! AND I ALSO CONDENSE MY TRIPS TO GET THEM DONE IN ONE TRIP RATHER THAN ONE HERE AND ONE THERE.
Denise Houston
2:19 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
*Fill up your car or truck in the morning when the temperature is still cool........ when it's colder outside, the ground is colder, which means the gas is denser, so you're getting more gas. As the day goes on and things start to warm up, the gas will actually expand, so a gallon won't really be a true gallon later in the day."
*Get the Junk Out of Your Trunk
*Tighten Your Gas Cap.. A loose or missing cap (which can also cause starting problems) can result in up to 30 gallons of evaporation annually
*Buy a sunpass ..zip through toll lanes, saving time and gas
Carol M
2:20 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
IF IT IS LESS THAN 5 MILES, I BIKE IT! AND I ALSO CONDENSE MY TRIPS TO GET THEM DONE IN ONE TRIP RATHER THAN ONE HERE AND ONE THERE.
Kimberly Rhodes
3:29 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
Winn Dixie Fuel Perks!
Tara
4:04 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
Before leaving my home I consider all of the locations I have to stop whether it be to run errands, visit clients, work, or attend school. I then devise a plan to make these stops in the most efficient way possible. I also turn off my engine when sitting in one spot longer than a minute (for example, while waiting in drive-thru car lines at the bank or dry cleaner.)
jay singerman
4:16 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I put my car in neutral at a red light
jack smith
4:44 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
Changing the air to nitrogen in the tires,using synthetic oil in engine,using hiperformance air filter all adds to savings.
Rebecca
4:46 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I try to run all my errands in one trip, no excess running around town. Take the best route available.
Julie Powers
5:56 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I use a windshield shade which helps to keep my car cool and I use the lowest octane. I also use gas buddy to help find the lowest gas price in the area.
Joanieb
6:40 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I have to drive my daughter back and forth to school and do my food shopping in the morning at Publix on the way home since they open at 7am -( only the one at Little and SR 52) its nice and early and not many shoppers that early :)
Chris C
8:20 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I combine all my trip/errands for the same day plus also use the Gas app on my phone to shop around for the best gas prices as I'm running my errands. Also making sure my tires are properly inflated couldn't hurt either!
Suzanne Conrad
8:45 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I'm driving slower, trying to combine my trips and cutting more coupons. I'm also entering contests for free gas cards!
Luisella
9:10 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
I plan my trips so I don't make unnecessary stops or go way out of my way. And I walk to my local grocer at least every other week I shop.
bill stanton
9:53 pm on Monday, May 21, 2012
hi bill here i either walk more or ride my biclyce more to save on gas for my car its good exercise to and gst my legs in top shape to
Judy Sullivan
6:07 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I try to use my motor scooter more ( It gets 75-100 mph)
Bud Dietrich AIA
8:43 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Bike, bike and more biking. Walk, walk some more and walk some more again. It's time to get healthy and fight the obesity epidemic.
Tawny Swain Castle
8:57 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I drive significantly less and am more diligent about consolidating errands. For example, when I pick up my local co-op order, I also drop off my recyclables just down the street from the co-op stop. I mostly work from home and my other work stop is less than two miles away with my dog. The farthest I drive is to Oldsmar to see my family. The increase in gas prices means I simply do not run errands or visit family as much.
jennifer hydock
9:03 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Drive less! Use smaller car for errands!
Warrie Ram
9:07 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I shop at WinnDixie for their fuel perks. It works.
Sophia Ryan
9:09 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I have been using the MCAT city bus.
Not only is it reasonable in cost...you meet new people and perhaps help tourists.
If I 'survive' crossing Cortez Rd - it is convenient too!
The bus stop back is at my complex entrance...can't beat that!
Jeannie Cline
9:09 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
We now walk to the grocery store that is 1/2 mile away. Not only are we saving gas on the numerous trips to the market, we are losing weight!....so our food bill is going down, too!!!
Anna Dukes
11:07 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I give myself a weekly gas budget, if the weekend comes and I'm low on gas then I try to keep the outings local and to a minimum!
Gina S
11:33 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
we are a one vehicle family, and our car is a compact car at that... we also enjoy thrifting as a hobby... It's a good way to stretch hard earned dollars further as well.
Kyrja
11:51 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
We constantly employ the Law of Attraction. "I LOVE falling gas prices!" (said with enthusiasm) is our mantra!
Jason Defant
11:55 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I don't base any decisions on where I drive and how much I drive on how much gas prices are. Look around the world. Our gas prices are low compared to London, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong, Berlin, Tokyo, etc, etc...where gas prices are ranging from $7-9/gallon..more than double what we're paying. So we should all be thankful that we're not paying more than we are. That being said, the best ways to save money are to stop buying booze and cigarettes, stop eating out, and stop spending money you don't have on things you don't need. That's a start!
Randy Esposito
1:15 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
It's been so long since I have been to a beach I forget why I moved to FL. Just so many ways trying to save on gas and electric, one is all shopping one day a week, ac runs at nite and ceiling fan's used more, cook on propane grill more, sky light in kitchen and solar attic fan all to try and save money. Would use the gas card to get myself to THE BEACH, save me please
dreamajeanie@gmail.com
1:28 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Currently I'm looking for work more related to my degree, but for now I have found part-time work at a department store that's less than 5 minutes away. I could walk if needed, but I still drive. Less commute is better for the paycheck, I'd hate to be pretty much paying to go to work by losing half of a paycheck to putting gas in my car.
Now when I find work related to my degree, there may end up being more of a commute, ha.
Janice
1:49 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I would LOVE to win the "Golden Gas Card" The economy has been in a downward slope for awhile now so I was forced to cut back a long time ago. I had to make big changes and budget to the penny for me and my 2 children. I'm proud to say that I have done it on my own without any public assistance! A gas card would give me the opportunity to purchase more food!
Danielle
2:11 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I stopped all unnecessary trips. I think twice about going out and spending money. I get all my shopping done in one trip and I ride my bike more.
Melissa Mekdeci
2:25 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Carpooling is great way to save gas, although it can be inconvenient it can certainly help reduce gas expenses. I tried posting a comment in the breakroom at work. It's surprising how close you are to some of you co-workers!
George
2:42 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Avoid taking off like a rocket at red lights.
Jarrod Smith
3:42 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Always put your car in park at redlights.
Philip Penrose
9:40 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Would you please explain your recommendation?
Thanks.
Mike
4:17 pm on Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Sold my truck and I now drive a scooter! 17 mpg average to 80 mpg average.
Joe Nixon CPA
8:11 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Use GasBuddy.com to find lowest gas prices in my area.
Rene' Johnson
8:29 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Wow - by the number of comments to this article it is easy to see that gas prices are a concern for us all. My best strategies for lowering fuel costs are reducing the number of trips in the car and shopping local!
Cheryl Beaudoin
8:45 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
We stay within about a 5 mile radius to home now. Also have added recreation for the family at our home instead of going other places..
Philip Penrose
9:45 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Look and plan ahead: If you know you are are coming to a red light or stop sign, you can coast part of the way...no need to accelerate toward a stop.
Philip Penrose
9:46 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Also - using cruise control on the highway (my max is 65) is more efficient than speeding up and slowing down.
Theresa Ellis
10:20 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
I take a few extra minutes to plan my stops so I can take the shortest, most efficient way. I also use a gas station finder App on my phone to find the cheapest gas while on my route. Staying under 60 mph and avoiding hard stops and starts are also key tips.
Eric Kendall
10:38 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Enjoying the pool at home more instead of driving to the beach or elsewhere.
Matthew Mistretta
11:40 am on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
A lot of essentials can be purchased for much cheaper online with free shipping, eliminating the need for multiple trips to the store. This not only saves gas and wear and tear on your vehicle, but also the hassle of dealing with traffic and crowds.
Alex
1:31 pm on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
I stay real close to home
Krista Jones
2:16 pm on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
traded in SUV for a Prius!!
enough said....
Dawn Christian
4:43 pm on Wednesday, May 23, 2012
With the hot weather here we don't use the AC in the car. I also make my kids carpool with friends when they want to hang out!!
Erica Harper
5:29 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Love to do family trips and long drives but, we have cut back on those. We instead go to the local parks they we have a spend time as a family. We keep looking for a gator but have not seen one yet!
Lori Ellis
6:53 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Lots of great ideas here! I have a job that requires quite a bit of driving, but when I am doing personal errands I plan my route to get as much done on one trip and without unnecessary detours. I also recently saw an article where gas is actually a few cents cheaper mid-week so I try to make my fill up day on Wednesday!
Toni McCafferty
7:31 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Our family tries to walk or bike if we are going somewhere close to our area/neighborhood. My husband and I also try and carpool as much as possible!
Donna Chen
7:59 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
I have always made a conscious effort to live close to work, and I currently have a 1.5 mile drive at my current job. If I didn't, then I would take public transportation. If it is a walkable destination, then I walk! And I always plan my errands accordingly so that I don't make additional trips in the car. I only have to fill up the tank once every 5-6 weeks!
Karlise Guzman
8:02 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
(Sorry if this is a repeat post, 1st didn't go thru)
I map out my errands so I avoid going back and forth across town. If I need to hit the produce stand, I try to do the library on the same run as they are both on the same route.
Don Anderson
8:03 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Have been in the workforce for 33 years. Love the freedom of having my own car every day. However, since August have started using the bus. Was strange at first not having my freedom (my car available), but to and from work, with a busload of folks, is certainly saving on the weekly commute bill.
Laurel Riffey
8:40 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
One way we save gas is by walking to school. It's almost a mile, but it's great exercise for me and my daughter. I also plan my errands close together and if I need something across town I wait until I have more to do there.
PATSIE TUZZO
9:25 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
You know that big black thing that we paid all the money for, I believe its called a
TV, well we started watching it instead of going to the mall. So we are saving a
lot of money on gas.......
Dena Fields
9:52 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
We found out that we really needed to cut down on the driving as the money spent on gas when we did the math was up WAY to too much!
With this said, here are some things we have done...
My husband works from home at least one day a week and this saves us a huge amount of gas.
I try to map out my day to make less trips and to go out once if posisble.
I have learned to pack water, snacks, books, electronics, etc SO the 3 kids we have will be entertained as they wait around for their siblings etc .
We now know when we leave- grab what yah need!
Believe it or not this realy has saved us tons!
At this point ever penny is being counted so we truly are glad we've made these changes!
Alexandra Fernandez
9:56 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
One way iam saving gas is by walking to stores that are closer to my house,also we dont go out to eat anymore and make home meal food. I also dont do much family outting ,I stay home with my son and play board games and do alot more walking.We notice we been saving more by doing those things plus my walking has made me lose more weight : )
Alessandra Da Pra
10:56 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Michele: "easy! i keep lots of items in the car... and others volunteer to drive! ouch....
(but i always offer to remove them.) also, i lost a wheel cover over a bayshore drive on a stormy day going over branches and so as my friends have cooler cars with all 4 covers, it is usually their idea to take their car! :)"
Julio macahuachi
10:56 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
The girlfriend and I carpool to work now to save on gas
Ciara
11:48 am on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Instead of trying to "save" money, I decided to "make" more money.. I realized that I would never be able to save my way to wealth.. and in order to not be held bondage to the almighty dollar, I have pursued my own business.. so far, everything is going great! If anyone else has a similiar mindset..I would be willing to help.. feel free to contact me via my website.. www.AubinGlobal.com
D
12:17 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Since losing my job saving money on gas has become even more important. First and I guess most obvious is driving less. I walk or bike so much more now. I combine errands into one trip. If I need something or to go somewhere I try to get more than one thing done in one trip. I carpool and my neighbor and I now ask tell each other when we are going to the grocery store to see if one of us may need something. When driving I make sure I don't ride the brake and don't brake often. I coast up to the traffic lights rather than quickly brakeing for each light. I try to drive "smoothly" rather than accelerating and decelerating often. I check my cars air filter, make sure my car is tuned up , and the tires are aligned. Making sure your gas cap isnt broken helps too. I dont idle and turn off the car if my car will not be driving for more than 30 seconds. I park and go into the bank rather than ideling outside in a line of cars. I removed excess weight from the trunk and drive the speed limit. I rarely use my air conditioner , which I must admit is my least favorite gas saving option! All these things have really worked and I have definately used much less gas.
CC
3:36 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2012
taking the auto train up north this summer rather than driving the whole way! An adventure for the kiddos and savings for us.
rocio
4:30 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2012
we've been taking the bus to and from work
David C
7:02 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2012
I drive using cruise control whenever possible. It really does help save gas
Alessandra Da Pra
10:17 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2012
Susie Cooke: "Carpool. Plan my trips. Ride my bike more. And now I designate two days a week as "no drive days." My car stays parked on those days each week."
Raymond Clark
11:00 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2012
I tend to shop at Winnie Dixie and get points for my gas card. I do also car pooling with my roommate to work. We do that often now and it saves us a lot of money!
Taylor Gaines
11:20 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2012
I try to limit myself to driving to school and back in order to save $. It usually works out because school is like 5 minutes from my house.
Mima
9:10 am on Friday, May 25, 2012
Shop for groceries on my way home from work. I pass the store every day
Chris
9:33 am on Friday, May 25, 2012
We only use a scooter now for all of our transportation. It gets 100 miles to the gallon. And since the cargo bin is small, our grocery bill is less too now!
Bob Clark
10:38 am on Friday, May 25, 2012
We sold one of our two cars. A little hard to re-adjust, but mostly a matter of better planning, which hasn't really been as hard as we'd imagined. Lots of $ saved. Air's a little cleaner. It feels right and good.
David Rice
1:40 pm on Friday, May 25, 2012
Pump slow. This minimizes vapors created while you are pumping. Gas hoses from the pump are corrugated, the corrugations act as a return path for vapor recovery from gas that has already been metered. If you pump fast, the agitated gasoline contains more vapor which is being sucked back into the underground tank giving you less gas for your money.
Also fill up in the morning. When the gas is cool, it contains less vapors and is more dense. Service stations don't have temperature compensation so a gallon in the afternoon is often times not really a gallon.
B Ch
1:43 pm on Friday, May 25, 2012
Sold my Camry and down sized to a Kawasaki used Ninja. Gas is now $18 every 7 days and $72 a month compared to $55 every 5-6 days and $220 a month. Now I'm saving $148 a month and insurance is lower.
Enjoy the cycle life but be safe, and don't let the gas station signs fool you. Always carry cash to get the best deal.
B Ch
Lauren Tice
3:24 pm on Friday, May 25, 2012
I try to plan my errands all within the same area and go after work instead of from home on the weekends :-)