Courtesy of AAA Northeast (CJSA Sponsor)
If you are like most soccer families, you spend a lot of time driving to and from the fields. Summer road trips and vacations only add to your monthly mileage. While the cost of gas is lower than its peak price, it is still over $3 a gallon.
Knowing a few tricks can help maximize your miles per gallon:
- There is no need to warm up your engine, even on cold mornings. Today’s cars are designed to start and go, so you are just wasting gas by idling.
- Take advantage of discounts at gas stations. AAA members save with Shell Gas across the country. (Save 30 cents per gallon on the first fill-up, and 5 cents per gallon every time thereafter.)
- Gas stations on the highways often charge higher prices due to their overhead. Fill up locally before a trip. If you must fill up near the highway, use stations near state border lines, which tend to price their gasoline less aggressively. (Use AAA’s mobile app to find the best gas prices along your route!)
- Do not use the AC at max. It can reduce your mpg by 5%-25% compared to not using it. Park in the shade when you can, so your car stays as cool as possible.
- In large vehicles, simply taking out an unused third-row seat can remove more than 100 pounds from the car’s weight, which will save gas. Remove any other heavy items from the trunk or interior, including extra tires, unused child seats and more.
- Believe it or not, driving on rough roads such as dirt or gravel can cost you up to 30% of your gas mileage. Avoid driving on rough roads whenever possible.
Despite the fluctuation in prices, it is possible to save money on gas. Use a combination of any of the above tips to keep both your wallet and gas tank full!
Not a member yet but want to save on gas? Join AAA with our special 2-for-1 offer, exclusively for CJSA members! Visit AAA.com/2for1 today.