Driving is often a better way to get around if you need to get to place to place quickly. While public transport, carpooling, and similar solutions are better for the planet, you can’t always help needing to drive. However, spending a fortune on driving is not necessary. If you find that you always seem to be spending money on driving and you want to know how to reduce the costs, read on!
- Drive Sensibly
The way you drive can make a huge difference to how much money you spend – it’s not all about the cost of your fuel. If you drive sensibly you can reduce the amount of fuel you use, as well as reduce your chances of needing to file an incident report and having to claim on your insurance. Avoid accelerating and braking suddenly, and if you’re driving on a highway, use your air conditioning rather than having the windows open as it creates too much resistance. Always read the road and pay attention to what’s going on ahead of you – a defensive driving course can help you.
- Empty Out Your Car
Having heavy items in your car that don’t need to be there can end up costing you far more in the long run as you use more fuel and there’s more of a chance of wear and tear on the car. Remove your roof rack and anything from the boot that you don’t need.
- Ensure You Have The Right Car For Your Needs
If you’re driving a tiny town car on the motorway or a large car for small drives, then you’re probably spending far more than you need to. Consider your driving style and how many miles you do each year, as well as where you tend to drive and you should be able to choose the best car for your needs.
- Don’t Pay Extra For Premium Fuel
Take your time to find the cheapest fuel in your area, and don’t pay extra for premium fuel. Use a loyalty card, too, as it’ll really add up.
- Haggle On Your Insurance Premiums
Each year, haggle on your insurance premiums. You should be able to get a better deal each year – if you allow it to roll over, you will no doubt be paying more than you need to.
- Choose Your Parking Spaces Carefully
Choosing a parking space carefully is key. Parking away from other cars reduces your risk of damage. If you don’t have this option, parking next to people who appear to have parked carefully and have well looked after cars is best, as they are likely going to be more careful.
- Wash Your Car Yourself
Save a fortune by buying the equipment and washing your car yourself. This way, you’ll also be able to keep an eye on any scrapes and dents that you may not have noticed.
- Stay On Top of Your Services
Make sure you stay on top of car servicing – there are apps out there that can track and remind you when you need to book in.
