Lower Transportation Bills
For many consumers, transportation is the second highest expense (behind housing). It is also an area that is ripe for cost cutting.
Here are some simple ways you can drastically reduce your transportation costs in no time:
Pay less at the pump. Keep an eye on gas prices in your neighborhood. You'll often find two or three stations constantly offer the best deals. Even ten cents a gallon less adds up over a month.
Avoid your car. Whether it's taking the bus, riding a train, light rail, or subway, public transportation can be more cost effective than driving yourself. Walk, roller blade or ride your bike for free and enjoy the added benefits of daily exercise.
Get your kids in on the act. If you have teenagers, get them to chip in for their gas, insurance, etc. Not only will this save you money, it will teach your children important lessons on financial responsibility early in life.
Handle your own maintenance. If you know how, change your own oil, check your fluids and replace spark plugs when needed. If the only tool you know how to use is a credit card, you can at least fill up your oil when it needs it. Buy the oil from stores rather than gas stations, who charge a laziness tax.
Avoid car dealers like the plague. Your dealership charges ridiculously high rates for even the simplest maintenance. Ask your friends and family for their mechanics and try to build a relationship with the mechanic you choose; the longer the relationship, generally the better the rates.
Change vehicles if need be. If you drive an SUV but have never seen snow, maybe it's time to trade it in for a more efficient car. This alone can save money at the pump and on your car insurance (smaller cars are generally cheaper to insure due to their smaller surface space). With these tips in mind, you can quickly reduce the cost of transportation and get yourself in better shape. Whether it's more exercise from walking, or learning a new skill like changing your oil, you're finances won't be the only benefit you'll see. |
