The holiday season is synonymous with travel, and for many, that means hitting the road to visit family and friends. While Christmas brings joy and togetherness, it can also bring higher expenses—especially at the gas pump. With fluctuating fuel prices, long drives, and stop-and-go traffic, your holiday travel can start to take a toll on your wallet. So, how can you make those miles stretch further?
Plan Your Route Efficiently
One of the easiest ways to save on gas is by planning your route before you head out. Avoid the temptation to rely solely on your GPS without double-checking for alternate options. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help identify routes with fewer traffic jams or tolls, which can cut down on both your travel time and gas usage.
If you’re traveling to a destination far away, try to drive during non-peak hours. Heavy traffic delays your trip and burns through your fuel as you idle in congestion. A well-planned departure can help you dodge both the crowds and the constant braking.
Keep Your Car in Top Condition
An efficient car is a gas-saving car. Before you set out on your Christmas road trip, take the time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the journey. Proper maintenance plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency.
Start by checking your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces your car to work harder and use more gas. A quick tire check and adjustment can lead to noticeable savings at the pump.
Next, make sure your air filters are clean. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, lowering fuel efficiency. Replacing an old filter is an inexpensive way to improve gas mileage.
Finally, consider getting a tune-up before the holidays. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, reducing your fuel consumption over long trips.
Lighten the Load
Are you guilty of treating your car like a storage unit on wheels? It’s time to rethink what you pack. Extra weight forces your car to burn more fuel, especially on longer drives. Keep only the essentials in your vehicle, and avoid strapping bulky items to the roof unless absolutely necessary.
Roof racks and cargo carriers create additional wind resistance, which significantly decreases fuel economy. If you need to carry extra items, opt for a streamlined solution or rearrange your packing to fit everything inside the car.
Adopt Fuel-Saving Driving Habits
Your driving style impacts gas mileage more than you might realize. Small adjustments to how you drive can add up to big savings over the course of your trip.
Avoid rapid acceleration and sudden braking. These habits waste fuel and put unnecessary strain on your engine. Instead, aim for gradual starts and stops to maintain a steady speed.
Cruise control should be used when possible, especially on highways. It helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel efficiency. However, be mindful when driving in hilly areas, as cruise control can sometimes overcompensate and use more gas on steep inclines.
Don’t idle for too long. If you’re waiting for someone or taking a break, turn off the engine instead of letting it run. Modern engines are designed to restart efficiently, so you’ll save gas by cutting the idle time.
Use Gas-Saving Tools and Discounts
Don’t overlook the benefits of technology and rewards programs when it comes to saving on fuel. Many apps can help you find the cheapest gas stations along your route. GasBuddy, for example, provides real-time price updates, ensuring you never overpay at the pump.
Consider joining fuel rewards programs. Many grocery stores and gas stations offer discounts or cash-back incentives for frequent customers. Over the course of your holiday travels, these small savings can add up significantly.
Keep your holiday travels stress-free with a car that’s ready for the road. Robbie's At Your Service offers comprehensive pre-trip inspections to help you save on gas and avoid surprises. Book your visit now!