Sticker Shock at the Gas Pump

Filed in archive Latin News , Latin Travel on May 28, 2008

© karynsig


Gas prices are insane just about everywhere, so-like you, I'm sure-I've been on the lookout for ways to make my tank last longer. These three details are working well for me.

Change your refueling time.

Fill up your tank early in the morning (preferably) or late at night (if you're a sleepyhead like me) when the temperature is cooler. As the day gets warmer, the gasoline sitting in the underground reserves expands, so when you fill up, your car reads more gasoline than you're actually getting.

Slow Down

Try to drive at under 65 mph, preferably between 30 and 60 mph. At this speed, your car is at it's most efficient. It may sound like you're going much slower.

Let's face it, many of us interpret 60 and 65mph as an even 70mph. But we're talking about covering, say, 10 miles in 8.5 minutes versus 10 minutes-that's means leaving only a minute and a half earlier to get where you're going on time. Not a big sacrifice.

And it could mean a big difference in your bank account at the end of the year.

Lighten Up

I've witnessed the difference since finally donating the veritable library I had riding in the trunk with me. Less weight, less gas burned.

What tips do you know of to save on gas? Share. At almost $4 USD per gallon, we're all interested.