Gas Saving Tips

If we all could, we would probably all be driving hybrid cars.  The outlook for gas prices is a little sad (okay, a lot sad) but being one who prefers to look at the glass half full, here are some helpful  tips and remedies that might be helpful.

1. If you can, plan you day.  A good planner or PDA is helpful.  I usually try and 'visualize' my day the night before.  If you're low on gas, fill up the night before at the gas station that has the best gas price.
2. If you don't have one already installed in your car, get a GPS.  A TomTom One V3 is less than $200 shipped and you won't be driving around looking for your destination. [this is available as an incentive gift from your promotional distributor].  It is a great sales tool, or corporate incentive gift. It's almost a must these days. It has saved me (a lot of) gas. I was born without an internal compass and don't know east or west.  I am totally dependent on this. Mapquest is great, too..but I prefer not to read while driving.
3. Plan your trip to the grocery once a week.  A good list helps.  Again, it takes planning but it works. It will also save you that second or third trip when you go and buy something you really didn't need.  It helps to stock up on non-perishables.
4. Drive light-ly.  If you have heavy items in your car, you might want to empty it out.  The heavier your car is, the more energy will be used - thus, more gas (1 to 2 percent of gas per 100lbs).
5. Shop online. I bookmark my favorite shopping sites.  Most online shops have excellent return policy.
6. Don't forget to maintain your car.  That tune-up and oil change not only ensures your car's longevity and good performance, it also saves you gas.
7. If you run your errands on the weekend, you might want to do it with a friend or neighbor. There's no traffic on the weekend and you're less stressed out. 
8. Carpool.  There's nothing like the diamond lane!  Perhaps you might find someone in your company who is also interested in sharing the road and saving.  If there are a few of you, you might be able to work out your working hours with your company.  Most corporations are eco-conscious these days and will appreciate efforts to minimize our carbon footprints.  Starting a campaign at work might even make you a star!!
9. Get a hobby or volunteer.  If you don't work, you're more inclined to get out during the day and just get out and drive.  A hobby will keep you busy.  The nearby school could use volunteers.
10. Love your bike (again).