Don’t let fuel prices fill you up with anger.
Are you one of many who revised your vacation plans due to rising gas prices? Goodbye epic road trip, hello picnic in the park!
But maybe leaving the car in the garage this summer isn’t an option. If that’s the case, we suggest you fill up on plenty of advice that will keep rising gas prices from ruining your summer. As a bonus, we’ll give you some simple and eco-friendly options when looking for an alternative to taking the car.
- GasBuddy
Meet a driver’s best friend when you want to get from point A to point B without burning through your gas budget. This app offers the most efficient routes for using as little gas as possible.
You can also use the new Google Maps feature, Eco Route, to find the most fuel-efficient route. Not only can you see your fuel savings, you can also see the differences between the most fuel-efficient and fastest routes, so you can decide which option is best for you.
-
Travel light
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight by removing salt, sand, and sports equipment from your vehicle when they aren’t needed. The same applies for your bike rack or cargo carrier.
-
The belairdirect app
It compares your estimated fuel efficiency over the last 30 days with the average fuel efficiency of your vehicle's make and model, providing feedback on how your driving habits affect your fuel efficiency. The app also offers you driving tips to better control your fuel consumption as well as tools to make it more efficient. The result? Up to 15% more fuel savings compared to the average drivers! It’s a simple way to be more fuel efficient, save money, and reduce your CO2 emissions.
- Good driving habits
Did you know you can reduce your car’s gas consumption by taking a few simple steps? Here are some examples that can make a big difference.
- Accelerate slowly: The more you accelerate, the more fuel you consume. In town, you can use less fuel by easing up on the accelerator. For example, after a stop, take 5 full seconds to reach a speed of 20 km/h.
- Keep your speed consistent: When your speed fluctuates, you spend more gas (and money) than necessary. On long trips, use the cruise control and road terrain to your advantage. For example, when going down a hill, take advantage of gravity to let the car roll without stepping on the accelerator.
- Anticipate traffic: Looking far ahead while driving allows you to see what you are approaching on the road. By paying attention to the actions of other motorists and pedestrians, you’ll have a better idea of what will come next. This allows you to maintain a more consistent speed and drive more safely.
- Avoid high speeds: Maintain the speed limit… and your budget! Most vehicles are more fuel efficient when travelling between 50 km/hr and 80 km/hr. Beyond this limit, they use considerably more fuel. The faster you go, the more fuel you consume!
-
Early risers and night owls should visit the pump
By refuelling early in the morning or in the evening, you get more for your money. Why? Since gas tends to expand with heat, you have less of it when you fill up during the day. The cooler it is, the more compact the gasoline, so more fits into your tank!
-
Give your AC the cold shoulder
Air conditioning increases fuel consumption. It is much more economical to open the windows and enjoy the summer breeze.
-
Cut it out!
Car not moving? Then shut off the engine, even for a few seconds!
-
Take it easy on the transmission
If you drive a car with a manual transmission, pay attention to the tachometer, which indicates engine speed. The higher the RPM, the more gas you consume. Make sure to change gears smoothly and quickly and accelerate using higher gears.
-
Make a plan
Plan your trips, especially long ones, by following a specific route. Listen to traffic reports to steer clear of traffic jams, accidents, and roadwork. Avoid going through major city centres since these often have traffic lights, intersections, and pedestrian crossings.
-
Kill two birds with one stone
Combine your errands by doing them all at once, rather than spacing them out over several days. Make one trip and plan your route to avoid retracing your steps or finding yourself stuck in traffic during peak hours.
-
Public transport
Stop worrying about traffic and your parallel parking skills! Take public transit instead—an easy way to travel safe and spend less as compared to taking the car. Whether you’re crisscrossing the city or going a little bit farther than around the block, try the bus. You can also take advantage of the journey to finally start that book you got for Christmas back in 2019.
-
The Subway
Taking the subway is a quick, easy, and very economical way to get around town. Buy a day or weekend pass or save even more with the monthly pass that gives you unlimited access. Students, seniors, and other groups enjoy reduced fares, and children accompanied by an adult can travel for free. There are so many reasons to make the subway your new favourite means of transportation around town!
-
By bike
We’re not saying you shouldn’t put the pedal to the metal, but a change of pedal is what’s needed! Grab your bike (and your helmet, of course!) and give your calves a workout. It’s good for your health and the planet’s, too. No bike? No problem! BIXI is a great way to get around Montreal without burning a hole in your pocket. The same goes for Bike Share Toronto in Toronto. Plus ebike sharing is now an excellent way to get around in Calgary, which recently granted permits to two companies—Neuron and Bird—to allow access to dependable, sustainable alternate transport.
-
Less is more
Ultimately, the best way to save gas and reduce your footprint is to drive less. Take a walk to buy milk, or bike to meet friends at a restaurant. Your wallet and the planet will thank you!
With these simple tips, you’ll enjoy the summer sunshine instead of burning through your gas budget. You’re on your way for a season of fun!
