In America, where public transportation is lacking in comparison to other countries, we rely heavily on cars to take us where we need to go,so gas is essential. However, gas prices are on the rise, so much so that the U.S is looking at an average of $4.25 per gallon come May according to USA Today. With every cent counting these days, citizens can’t afford to be wasting gas willy nilly. But what is the best way to save on the stuff? Stick around and we’ll give you the 8 best ways to economize that gas usage!

1. Avoid using your car in the first place- The best way to save something is to not use it. See if you can make your commute virtual by working at home. Or if you’re close enough, try bike riding or walking to your destinations. You’ll get the workout and your car will get a nice break. 

2. Split the Cost- Here’s another way to give your gas usage a break. Carpool with neighbors or coworkers to destinations. By taking turns daily,weekly, or splitting the cost of gas between you a gallon can go a long way.

3. Strategize Your Route- Sometimes the shortest or fastest route isn’t the most fuel efficient. Use the map function on your cell phone or computer to map out which route has the fewest stop signs, street lights, and over all traffic congestion to minimize acceleration and deceleration. 

4. Slow and Steady Wins the Race- Sometimes as people we get impatient and just want to floor it when that light goes green, or slam the breaks when we hit a red. However, being gentle and slow is the way to go. Ease your way into acceleration and go slowly into your stop. Always obey speed limits as well, because every 5 mph faster you go up to the point of 50 mph, you’re wasting more gas.

5. Don’t Idle Away Your Gas- Generally if you’re parked in place for more than 60 seconds, it’s best to turn off your engine instead of wasting gas.

6. Don’t Weigh Yourself Down- Avoid putting cargo on top of your car, as it’ll add weight and affect your car’s aerodynamics. If you must add cargo, put it in the back so the weight won’t affect the aerodynamics. On the note of weight, make sure you aren’t keeping things you don’t use in your car, because the more weight your car carries the more gas it uses up. 

7. Running Errands?- Minimize the number of trips you take out with your car. Try to get all your errands done in one day. When you get to your destination, park farther away so that you’re not wasting your time and gas looking for a parking space close to the front.

8. TLC- A well taken care of car is a gas saving car. Make sure that your engine is in tip top shape with the correct fuel grade, and that your tires are filled to the correct PSI. PSI information can usually be found in the door frame of your driver’s seat.

This just goes to show that with a tiny bit of adjustment, the individual can make a difference in their gas intake, and in turn make a difference on their impact on the earth. These are just some of the ways you can economize your lifestyle to save yourself some money, and the planet.