We are going on a family trip this coming holiday vacation in Pagudpgud, Ilocos Norte. My wife and I decided to bring our car instead of riding on an airplane because we want to drive around the towns of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur and the provinces of La Union and Pangasinan.
We already booked a room in a nice, family atmosphere hotel somewhere in Pagudpud. This is not my first time to go there so I know how far the place is – around 12 hours of driving from Manila. Food is very cheap in that province. The only expenses I’ve been thinking around that will eat most of our budget is the gas.
Gas prices are getting more and more ridiculous. And it’s going to keep increasing with no limit in sight! Gas price went down by 50 centavos for unleaded gasoline last week but still high.
Therefore, it is becoming more and more important to maximize your money and save at the gas station.
Below are the 10 best tips I have compiled to help you get the most out of your money!
Tip 1: Shop Around
This is the advice that you can apply anytime you buy anything not only for Gas. Always shop around specially if there are gasoline stations that are near to each other. They usually try to compete by lowering their prices. Y
Tip 2: Try another brand
You may be loyal to the brand that you are using now but probably you can get yet cheaper price for a different brand.
Tip 3: Buy Gasoline When the Weather is Cool
I actually learned about this tip from my friend. Gasoline is denser in in the morning or at night. Gas stations measure volume, not density. The gasoline easily evaporates during warmer temperatures.
Tip 4: Avoid Gas Stations That Just Refilled Their Tanks
I’ve experienced this in Baguio City during Typhoon Peping. The small particles at the bottom of the tank get stirred up when the tanks are refilled, and when these particles get into your gasoline tank, they affect the fuel efficiency of your car.
Tip 5: Don’t Top Off
The gas pump needs some time to draw out the full amount of gas, so when you purchase a bit of gas the station, you get short bursts of fuel that you’ll probably pay extra for. Try to refill your tank when you have less than half a tank left or when you find a price that is so low you cannot afford to miss it.
Tip 6: Don’t Use High Octane Gas
Most cars nowadays are built to run on regular unleaded gas. Don’t let the pump or gasoline boy to outsell you. Purchasing higher octane gas is simply a waste of money. Getting higher octane gas will not improve fuel efficiency. Check your car manual for the correct recommended gas octane.
Tip 7: Use The Correct Tire Pressure
Having the correct tire pressure is extremely important for getting good gas mileage and the most life out of your tires. The recommended pressure is most commonly listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
Tip 8: Lessen the Use of Air-Conditioning
This tip is simple enough. Air-conditioning uses electricity, and they can reduce fuel economy by up to 20%. It’s advisable to use the air ventilation system instead, if it’s possible. I’m recommending this tip if you are driving in your subdivision or in the province where the outside air is fresh.
Tip 9: Plan Your Trip
Make a plan trip. You can avoid unnecessary driving by planning your trip before hand, and of course that saves you money on gas consumption. If going to the provinces, avoid passing through town markets, use the provincial road instead.
Tip 10: Purchase Vehicles That Get Good Mileage
This is probably one of the best tips anybody can give on saving money at the gas pump. It’s always better to purchase vehicles that get good gas mileage. Buy the right car for you and your family! Avoid a big car if you can if you only have a small family.
I like your article, and this is very useful for others, including my own … thanks