Improve Your Gas Mileage: Tips for Increasing Fuel Economy

With the increasing rise in gas prices, many consumers are searching for ways to improve gas mileage. By implementing strategic planning, driving to conserve gasoline, and a little research, consumers can stretch their gas dollars farther, as well as improve the mileage per gallon they get on a very necessary expense.

Comparison Shop

The first step in getting more mileage from your gas is to research which place has the lowest price available. Although you can make a few phone calls to the local gas stations and compare prices, sites such as GasBuddy.com and GasPriceWatch.com have already done the leg work for you. Both sites allow consumers to enter their zip codes and check the local gas market. Be forewarned, not all cities have people reporting in, so your city might not be available. Another option is to employ a search engine such as Google or Yahoo with a keyword search of “gas prices” + your ZIP code. If all else fails, you can use a price book to track the local gas station prices and make your own comparisons.

Bear in mind while comparing gas prices that some stores who issue their own brand credit card may charge you slightly more for the privilege of using their card. Conversely, if you can find a national credit card that offers cash back on gas purchases, you can increase your gas savings by a few cents per gallon. Just remember if using this strategy, to make your payments on time, and pay the full amount due on the card, otherwise your saving will be lessened by late payment fees and interest.

Another option in lowering your gas expense is to consider joining a warehouse club such as Sam’s or Costco. In general their prices are the lowest anyway, and membership does reduce the amount you pay per gallon. Additionally, most Wal-Marts sell gift cards you can use at the pump that gives you an average of three cents a gallon discount, and these gift cards are accepted at most Sam’s locations, which further increases the gas discount you get at the pump.