Easy Tips to Save Money on Transportation

We spend a lot of money on our cars, don’t we?

Even if you don’t have a car payment (and you shouldn’t!), you’ll still pay a good bit on gas every month.

Today’s challenge includes two steps:

First, I want you to estimate how much you spent on gas last month. Write down that number: $______________

Second, log in to your bank account and add up how much you actually spent on gas last month. Write down that number: $______________

How close was your guess?

If you’d like to save a little more gas money (and who wouldn’t?), here are a few ideas:

• Check Groupon. A lot of times they'll have great oil change discounts!
• Change your commute time. If you're sitting in standstill traffic for a long time, you're wasting gas. Consider leaving earlier or later to avoid rush hour.
• Carpool. Just carpooling to work one day a week will save you 20% on gas! Do it twice a week and that’s 40% savings. Ask around and find a coworker or two who live near you.
• Compare car insurance rates. See if you can find a better deal. I recommend local pros in your area who will make sure you're getting the best, current deal on car insurance.

Use these ideas and brainstorm a few others. How much do you think you can save next month on gas? Write down how much money you’ve found today! If you are recording numbers in EveryDollar, make sure to enter your new monthly planned amount for gas.