Car travel is on the rise according to a recent report from AAA Southern New England, with a 17.1 percent increase in auto travel this past Fourth of July weekend.AAA cites an improved economy for the increase.
“The landscape of the U.S. economy is in a much different place than it was one year ago,” Lloyd P. Albert, AAA Southern New England senior vice president of public and government affairs, says in a news release. “It’s encouraging to see such growth this summer as Americans take to the road to visit family, friends and great vacation destinations.”
Here are a few tips to help you save before taking a summer road trip:
Before you take your trip, make sure to plan accordingly. The last thing you want is to take the wrong route, waste gas, time and money on tolls. Here are a few tips before you take the trip:
- Get a customized traveling map with low gas prices along the route. This will be very handy and can be found here.
- Make sure the car is your best bet. Check out bus lines along your chosen route and trains. There may be last minute deals on other methods of transportation.
- Inflate your tires! This can save you 3 percent on your gas mileage.
- Investigate your vehicle's oil. Choosing the right oil for your vehicle can save you money. Using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil improves gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent.
- Don't run the AC on Max. We know driving in the heat can be uncomfortable. By turning down the AC however, you can improve your mpg by 5 to 25 percent.
- Keep items off your roof, and fill the trunk instead. A roof covered in items increases weight and aerodynamic drag, and will hurt mileage by up to 5 percent.
- Drive sensibly and keep your speed in check. Gas mileage can be lowered by 33 percent by increasing speed and braking heavily.
- Buy a GPS for your trip. The price of a GPS is very low, and is guaranteed to keep you on track. This will save you time, miles, and peace! Check out OnSale.com for low prices on a new GPS.
