7 Ways to Cut Your Commuting Costs and save More ...

If you’re looking for ways to cut commuting costs, consider brewing your own coffee and preparing your breakfast at home. Stopping at a coffee shop or fast food restaurant on the way to work might be convenient, but this may require driving out of your way and using more fuel. Eliminate stops on the way to work and you might use less gasoline during the week.

Driving fast might get you to work a few minutes earlier, but driving fast does nothing to help your gas mileage. Believe it or not, speeding uses more fuel. As a result, you can burn through your gas quicker, which translates into additional trips to the gas station.

If you and your spouse work in the same vicinity, and work the same hours, rather than drive two separate cars five days a week, share a ride to work. Sure, being without a car can take a measure of your freedom. But with only one car on the road a day, you’ll spend less in gas, thus reducing your commuting cost.

If you only work a few miles from your home, park your car a few days a week and pull out your bike. Riding your bike to work can be the perfect alternative when days are mild. Plus, this is an excellent way to fit in a workout. And if you don’t have a bike, you can always walk to work.

The ability to work from home one or two days a week can significantly reduce how much you spend on fuel. Approach your employer to see if this is an option. If your employer isn’t excited about the idea, suggest a trial run. This way, your employer can access how productive you are at home. If he’s happy with your performance at home, he may allow telecommuting on a permanent basis, thus eliminating commuting costs.

If you’re spending too much on gas each week, reevaluate your vehicle choice. Do you drive an SUV or another gas guzzler? If you’re not ready to trade in your current vehicle, consider purchasing a car just for work. This can be any small, inexpensive car that has good gas mileage. And if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, consider purchasing a hybrid or an electric car. These cars are perfect if you commute a great distance.

Regular maintenance can improve your gas mileage, thus helping reduce your commuting cost. For example, make sure your tires are properly inflated. Stay on top of recommended vehicle services, such as a fuel induction service, which can also improve gas mileage.

Reducing your commuting cost is an excellent way to free up cash for your savings account. This requires a conscious effort, and to benefit the most, consistency is key. What strategies have you used to cut your commuting costs?