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Summer Road Trips:
Get More Mileage for Your Money
There's nothing better than stocking up on hotdogs and Otter Pops, loading the car with tents and sleeping bags, and heading out onto the highway for a summer road trip.
- Slow your roll. It's not a racecar. And there's really no point going over the speed limit when you're on vacation. Slowing from 65 to 60 mph can save you as much as 10 cents per gallon, and the further you go, the more these savings add up. Keep it slow and steady, enjoy the sights, and save money in the process.
- Inflation is key. Buy radial tires and make sure they're properly inflated. Check on the certification label or in your owner's manual for recommendations on maximum inflation pressures. Do not under-inflate in hopes of a smoother ride. Under-inflated tires burn more fuel, and make very little difference to ride quality. Properly inflated tires will last longer, saving you even more money.
- Idle not. Don't spend a lot of time just idling. Whether it's a rest stop, a lunch stop, or anything in between, turn off the engine when you're not driving and watch your gas bill decrease. And the more you can go without running your A/C, the more money you'll save as well.
- Timing is everything. It may sound crazy, but when you go to the gas station can actually make a difference to your fuel efficiency. Gas prices tend to be higher on the weekends, so filling up during the week will ensure that you get the most mileage you can for the money. Additionally, gas pumps deliver more fuel during cooler temperatures. So if you fill up at night or early in the morning, you'll also be able to stretch your fuel bucks even further.
- Just cruise. Utilizing your cruise control and overdrive will help boost your mileage. Setting the cruise control to 60 miles per hour keeps the vehicle at a steady rate, and goes a long way to reducing your fuel costs even further. Overdrive reduces engine speed as well, which, in turn, saves fuel.
- Be wise. Don't be fooled by the idea that premium gasoline is the answer to all your mechanical problems. Unless you're specifically required to do so, buying premium is a waste of your gas dollars. Only buy what you need, and if unleaded will work for your vehicle, then by all means, buy unleaded!
Before you set out on a summer adventure, remember that it's important to insure your ride, whether it's a motorcycle or car. Get your free auto or motorcycle quote from Esurance, and be safe as you hit the highways and byways this summer!
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