Well, I am here to teach you how to save more.

A lot of my readers ask me how they can escape debt and find easy ways to save money. There's no magic pill, it is simple planning and focusing a few minutes each day on changing your finances.

I speak with and come in contact with quite a few millennials who have no savings in their savings account whatsoever. That seems to be the biggest problem for most people, and I almost always provide them with this incredible plan on ways to save and changing up their finances and they all tell me how it really does work.

I'm here today to tell you the same advice I give them, and how you can change your finances and get out of the paycheck to paycheck way of living and find easy ways to save money even on a tight budget.

How Will This Work?

When you don’t have a good understanding of money it's difficult to properly manage it. Education and savings are key to changing your money problems.

So, today I am going to help you with finding easy ways to save money. In order for this to be successful, you must track your savings in a new account or you won't be able to see your progress. If you track savings in the same checking account that you use for everything else, it doesn't usually work.

This is one big thing that most people forget to do, so now that you get its importance, what should you do?

If you’re serious about getting things off on the right foot, I suggest you open a new savings account (see best ones here) or use an account that is different than your daily bank checking account.

Once you have one dedicated to tracking your savings, start depositing money—$1, $5, $10, $0.01—any amount is good. It’s just about getting over the hump, trust me!

18 Ways to Cut Monthly Expenses

There's a whole world out there filled with ways you can save money. Where do you even start? Start with these easy steps that are proven to help save money today, tomorrow, and this year!  And here they are.

How to Save Money on Transportation

Insurance companies can really take advantage of millennials and charge them a lot of money for their car insurance. Additionally, the cost of the car and fuel can render driving not realistic. Proper car maintenance is key to keeping your ride performing at its best. Our 6 car maintenance tips for maintaining your vehicle also help you save money.

1. Cut gas waste by driving sensibly

Repeatedly accelerating and braking are the fastest ways to burn a lot of gas. According to some experts, aggressive driving can increase your fuel consumption by 33% at highway speeds and by 5% at normal town speeds.

We thought this was the easiest way you can save money and shared ways you can save money on gas.

2. Set the cruise speed at 50 mph

Gas mileage usually decreases as you pass the 50 mph point, so make sure you set your cruise control to this value. Some experts estimate that every 5 mph on top of the value of 50 mph is the equivalent of paying 20 cents more per gallon of gas.

3. Avoid idling

Whenever you're parked and waiting, turn your engine off. Idling can eat up to half a gallon per hour. According to another study, restarting the engine consumes only as much as the equivalent of 10 seconds of idling.

In addition, don't wait until your vehicle warms up in winter. Specialists recommend that you drive slowly for the first 30 seconds after starting the engine. As the engine warms up faster while driving, it will reach the optimal temperature faster.

4. Learn to love the heat

Try to give up your air conditioning or set it at a higher temperature. Running the air conditioning can increase your fuel consumption by 25%, as calculated by researchers.

The specialists recommend driving with the windows open to let the hot air get out as you start moving, and using the A/C only at high speeds when driving with your windows open generates too much noise and discomfort.

5. Choose the right motor oil

You should always use the grade of motor oil recommended by the manufacturer or the vehicle. When using the wrong oil, you can lower your gas mileage by 1%-2% because of the additional friction in the engine.

The right oil will attenuate these frictions, so make sure you don't make mistakes when you purchase your motor oil. Using oil containing friction-reducing additives is also a good idea, as recommended by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

6. Look for better insurance

Yes, it may seem obvious, but when was the last time you actually compared your car insurance rate? Many people stick with the same provider for years without checking if they’re overpaying. Insurance companies count on this, often raising premiums over time because they assume you won’t leave.

If you have a clean driving record, your rates should be staying the same or even decreasing—but are they? Shopping around online can help you find a better deal. Personally, I compared rates last month using Gabi and switched from Geico to Allstate, saving 65%. Insurify is another free tool that compares rates from major insurers, making it easy to find the best price.

Ways to Save on Debt

The most important thing anyone should be doing financially is working towards being debt-free. Once you are officially debt-free (besides a mortgage or real estate), you can work towards financial independence or earning more money. Here are a few ways to help you lessen your financial stress and cut down on debt and save more.

7. Negotiate your bills & lower your monthly payments

One of the easiest ways to free up cash for debt repayment is to reduce your recurring expenses. Many service providers, like cable, internet, phone, and even insurance companies, are willing to offer discounts or match competitor rates if you ask.

Start by calling your providers and politely negotiating for a lower rate. If you mention a competitor’s better offer or say you're considering canceling, they may offer you a discount or promotional rate to keep your business.

Another option is to use a bill negotiation service like Rocket Money, which automatically finds and cancels unused subscriptions and negotiates better rates on your behalf. This simple step can save you hundreds per year—money that can go directly toward paying off your debt faster.

8. Consolidate your debts using a balance transfer card or personal loan

If you're serious about saving money, consider using a balance transfer credit card to reduce or eliminate interest on your debt. If you're only making the minimum payment on a high-interest credit card, most of your money goes toward interest rather than paying down the principal balance.

For example, if you have a $2,000 balance on a Visa card with an 18% APR, you’d pay $400 per year in interest alone if you only make minimum payments. That’s money wasted when you could be paying off your debt faster.

A Discover It® card offers an intro 0% APR period, allowing you to move your balance from a high-interest card and pay it off without accumulating extra interest. This can help you get out of debt much quicker and keep more money in your pocket.

9. Refinance your student loans

If you’re paying a high-interest rate on your student loans, refinancing could help you save money each month by securing a lower rate. By refinancing, you can reduce your interest payments, simplify multiple loans into one, and potentially pay off your debt faster.

If you have a steady income, good credit (or a cosigner), and multiple student loans, refinancing is often a smart move. Plus, checking your new rate typically takes just two minutes with no impact on your credit score. Here are the best student loan refinance lenders to help you find the lowest rates available.

10. Explore debt relief options

If you're struggling with high-interest debt and finding it difficult to keep up with payments, debt relief programs can help you regain control of your finances. These programs work by negotiating with creditors to lower your total debt amount or create a more manageable repayment plan.

One reputable option is National Debt Relief, which helps people consolidate and reduce unsecured debt, such as credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. If you're overwhelmed by debt and need a structured solution, exploring debt relief services could be a smart move toward financial stability.

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11. Earn extra income by driving

If you have a car, driving for Uber or Lyft can be a flexible way to earn extra cash and pay down debt faster. Many people drive full-time, but even doing it part-time can add a meaningful boost to your income.

Once you're a driver, you can turn the app on or off whenever it’s convenient, allowing you to work around your schedule. A great feature is the ability to set your destination, meaning you can pick up passengers heading in the same direction as your commute—turning your drive home into a money-making opportunity.

Driving just a few hours a week can bring in up to $300 a month, which can go directly toward eliminating debt. And if you’re willing to commit more time, the earning potential is even higher. According to Uber, the national average earnings were $601 per week, making this a solid option for those serious about increasing their income.

Ways to Save Money on Everything Else

If you still need more ideas on how to drastically cut expenses, it's time to consider some other things you may be wasting money on. These ideas can help you dig deeper and save even more.

12. Save money with your child's college savings plan

You want the best for your children, and part of that means ensuring they have financial support for their education. Setting aside money for college isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Thanks to Upromise, you can create a 529 College Savings Plan and take advantage of rewards programs that help grow your child’s education fund.

Upromise helps parents save by offering cashback rewards on everyday purchases, which can be automatically deposited into a 529 College Savings Plan. By using it, you can make steady progress toward your child’s education without putting too much strain on your budget.

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13. Have a budgeting spreadsheet handy

Keeping your finances organized is essential for managing spending and paying off debt efficiently. A budgeting spreadsheet allows you to track expenses, set financial goals, and ensure you’re saving enough each month.

If you’re looking for a more hands-on approach, YNAB (You Need a Budget) is an excellent budgeting tool that helps you allocate every dollar intentionally, making sure your money is working for you. Whether you prefer a classic spreadsheet or an automated budgeting app like YNAB, having a system in place makes it much easier to stay on top of your finances and make smarter money decisions.

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Take The Following Actions Today

If you are looking for easy ways to save money then you should know that you do not have to stay living paycheck to paycheck, but it’s up to you to change it. If there is no change, then your situation won’t and can’t be different. Set a goal to take action today, and make a plan to break free. Start small if you need to and educate yourself. Knowledge is definitely powerful!

The post 13 Ways to Save Money on Monthly Expenses appeared first on BeerMoney.

I'm not talking about going to the extreme and clipping coupons for hours on end, but if you get them sent to your home or just find printable coupons at sites like Coupons.com, it's worth the extra time.

In this article, I'm going to show you how to get coupon books mailed to you and how you can find coupons online from your favorite brands.

Get to Get Free Coupons and Coupon Books by Postal Mail

Here are the top ways for you to get free coupons and free coupon books by postal mail and online.

1. Contact Companies for Product Coupons

The most effective way of getting free coupons by postal mail is by contacting the company itself.

Many companies love to receive positive reviews and feedback about their products. So if you were to reach out to provide positive or negative feedback, you'll likely receive a “thank you” or “please give us a second try” coupons send directly to you. Sometimes — they have even sent me a free product for my time!

It's usually worth the effort. And it doesn't have to take much time either. You can contact them through their Facebook fan page or through Instagram. If all else fails, just reach out to their customer service email which is a quick Google search away.

Here are some popular companies that you likely buy products from that you could reach out to: Hershey's, Kleenex, Dawn, Quaker, Pepperidge Farm, Neutrogena, Alka Seltzer, Pampers, Birds Eye, and Kraft.

To make good use of your opportunities to receive free coupons by mail, there are important tips that can be of assistance to you:

• Always be polite: Even if you are not necessarily providing positive feedback, you can send negative feedback or reviews with a measure of politeness. Always try to remain professional and civil at all times will win your respect and possibly coupons.
• Stay specific: Specify what you are praising. If you enjoyed something be specific as to what you like.
• Give details: Provide detailed information. If you have a complaint, make it as explicit as possible stating even the specific problem you had. If it is a commendation, provide details too.

2. Use Coupon Sites

Coupon sites like Swagbucks and RetailMeNot provide access to thousands of coupons, promo codes, and cashback deals daily. Whether you're shopping for retail, travel, food, groceries, or prescriptions, these sites can help you save big.

One of the best perks of using Swagbucks is its $10 sign up bonus when you spend $25 in the Swagbucks Shop. Simply shop through their portal, and once you've made a qualifying purchase of at least $25, you'll receive 1,000 Swagbucks (equivalent to $10) in rewards. This is an easy way to stack savings on top of existing coupons, cashback, and store promotions.

The best part? These coupon sites are 100% free to use. They earn a commission when you visit a retailer through their links or complete a purchase, and in return, you get cashback, bonus points, or discounts—making it a win-win for both parties.

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3. Follow Your Favorite Brands on Social Media

Companies that you use every day love sharing coupons, deals, and promotions on their social media accounts.

By checking their social media accounts from time to time, you can likely spot out customer engagement posts that you can participate in and they'll often email or send you coupons in the mail.

By following all the companies whose products you own, you can see on your Facebook newsfeed when one of them is having a promotion or lists a coupon. Or you can just check their pages from time to time for promotions and coupons.

4. Use Coupon Apps

Coupon and cashback apps can help you save money effortlessly on everyday purchases, from groceries to household essentials. Three of the best apps to use are Fetch, Pogo, and Ibotta, each offering unique ways to earn rewards.

• Fetch allows you to earn points by simply scanning receipts from any store. Points can then be redeemed for gift cards to retailers like Amazon, Target, and Starbucks. To maximize savings, always check Fetch for special offers that align with in-store promotions or manufacturer coupons. Some brands offer extra points for specific purchases, so reviewing these deals before shopping can lead to even bigger rewards.
• Pogo works differently by connecting to your bank and automatically earning you cashback on qualifying purchases. It also provides surveys and data-sharing opportunities that reward you for engaging with the app. Since Pogo doesn’t require scanning receipts, it’s a great passive way to save without extra effort.

By using these apps together, you can maximize cashback opportunities and stretch your savings on everyday purchases.

5. Buy Coupons Online

You can usually get whatever coupon you need simply by buying them. I've done this in the past, by buying coupons off eBay. Whenever you have a big purchase coming up, just look on eBay for the store name + coupon and you can usually save yourself some money.

But if you wanted more generic coupons to grocery stores and cleaning products, you can use coupon clipping services.

These sites offer coupons for such a cheap rate that, in the end, you're saving money. Plus, you don't need to spend time checking companies' Facebook, emailing them, or finding them online.

You simply buy them and they will mail you coupons you bought. Here are some options:

• Jack’s Cards and Coupons – A trusted source for SmartSource, RetailMeNot Everyday, and P&G coupons. They offer a vast selection of coupons at low prices with free shipping.
• Coupon Flea Market – One of the largest online marketplaces for buying and selling coupons. Here, you’ll find coupons for major grocery brands, cleaning products, and other everyday essentials.
• Klip2Save – A popular coupon service that lets you buy individual manufacturer coupons for specific products. Ideal if you want to stock up on savings without dealing with full newspaper inserts.
• The Coupon Marketplace – Another reliable option for purchasing both clipped and whole-insert coupons for groceries, beauty products, and more.

6. Join Company Newsletters

It should come at no surprise that if you give companies your email adresss they'll try to get you to buy their products by sending coupons and deals to your email.

Some companies even offer to send you free coupon books by postal mail. If you don't have that option, simply email them and ask if they send out coupons via email or postal mail. They will likely send you something for your time.

A great example of companies offering coupons in the mail for people joining their newsletter is Bed Bath & Beyond's newsletter.

7. Check the Sunday Paper

We have to end this list by another legitimate way of finding coupons — scouring the Sunday paper. This is a great option because you don't have to print any coupons rather cut them out.

You can find quality coupons to major grocery stores near you and pharmacy stores like CVS, Walgreens, and RiteAid. Walgreens has a good app that you can regularly stack manufacturer and store deals, and CVS as well, but less so in my experience.

It's also worth mentioning that most coupons are also sent to people's addresses, so check to see this week if you receive any.

Free Coupon Tips

When you're using these coupons that were mailed to you, you printed online, or got in the mail keep these tips in mind:

• Get organized
• Pay attention to sales
• Double up on coupons
• Forget store and brand loyalty
• Learn further tricks
• Make an email account for couponing

The Bottom Line

It may sound strange, but there are many companies that can help you spend money to save money by sending you free coupon books by mail.

In case you are not sure of the companies to get free coupons by mail, write out all the companies which you like.

The most important ones on your list are those that make most of the products that you use and buy.  Most of those companies would be willing to provide you with the best coupons once you contact them.

Do you want to know what's even better than getting free coupons in the mail? Finding ways to cut back on expenses and save money on gas.

The post How to Get Free Coupons by Mail appeared first on BeerMoney.

No worries, we’ll give you the best budget spreadsheet that’s free below:

How to use it:

Download the free spreadsheet here

• Blue text = manual entry for current/past numbers
• Green text = manual entry for future numbers
• Black text = formula-driven
• Blue fill with black type = manual entry for future numbers (budget)

To update the monthly budget sheet:

1. Track your transactions manually using your bank's online export feature or a budgeting app that allows transaction exports (e.g., YNAB, Quicken, or your bank's CSV download option).
2. Export your transactions as a .CSV file.
3. Copy and paste the data into the Transactions tab of the spreadsheet.
4. Update the row labels (column A) on the Monthly Budget sheet to match your personalized spending categories.
5. At the end of each month, drag the formulas over your manually entered budget numbers to keep your data current.

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To update the income sheet:

1. Add past income details from your saved W2s or tax documents.
2. Update health insurance deductions or other relevant pre-tax contributions.

To update the asset sheet:

1. Add contributions to the top section, categorized by account type (e.g., 401k, IRA, HSA).
2. Enter your updated net worth balances for tracking.
3. Adjust assumptions (e.g., expected return rates) in the designated cells (e.g., AP19 and AP20).

Feedback:

This spreadsheet is designed to make personal finance management easier, with most sections formula-driven for simplicity. It previously relied on exports from Mint, but with Mint no longer available, the process is now more flexible—users can adapt it to work with other budgeting tools or manual entry such as YNAB (my favorite budgeting app — get a free trial through here).

A note about taxes: The tax and Social Security (SSI) portions are subject to government policy changes. To ensure accuracy over time, you may need to update the spreadsheet with new tax rates or brackets for each year. However, these updates are typically minimal and manageable, making the spreadsheet a reliable tool for long-term financial planning.

This spreadsheet is highly adaptable, and while ongoing updates are required for future years, using inflation-adjusted estimates provides a solid baseline for planning. Great job creating a robust system for financial management!

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The post Ultimate Free Personal Finance Budget Spreadsheet appeared first on BeerMoney.

For every person, regardless of their age, it is important that you have a personal financial plan in place to reach financial stability. As a matter of fact, coming up with an actual plan for managing your finances, is an easy process. All you need to know is where to start.

The only difficult part is to actually follow the plan that you have come up with. If you feel lost and do not know where to start from, the following are some strategies that can serve as a guide for resolving your financial issues and building a better financial future.

Why Is It So Hard to Save Money? (6 Tips to Consider)

1. Develop a Budget

It is important that you have a budget plan since there are many reasons to start making a budget plan if you do not have one.

• Firstly, it helps to build a foundation for all the other financial decisions that you will be making in the future.
• Secondly, it allows you to encounter problem areas and correct them.
• Thirdly, you will eventually learn to differentiate between what you need and what you want.
• And lastly, it will ultimately give you peace of mind by having all your expenses planned and laid out.

Once you are done chalking out the plan, make sure that you stick to it. That is the most essential part.

By having your own personalized free budget spreadsheet you can keep your personal finances organized and control your spending and debt. A well-tuned personal finance spreadsheet can help you plan your financial future.

All of this sounds good?

Well, next you’re probably thinking where can you find the best budget spreadsheet? You can get a free personal finance budget spreadsheet here.

2. Use a Budgeting App (The Easy Way)

Let’s be real…manually tracking every expense in a spreadsheet can be a hassle for some people. But I can't express how important having a budget is, if you don’t have one, now is the time to start.

A solid budget plan helps you make better financial decisions, identify problem areas, and differentiate between needs and wants. Most importantly, it gives you peace of mind by keeping your expenses organized.

If you don’t want to spend hours crunching numbers but still want to take control of your money, YNAB (You Need a Budget) is the answer.

This app does all the hard work for you—syncing with your bank, tracking your spending, and showing you exactly where your money is going. No more guessing, no more stressing, just complete financial clarity without the effort.

It’s a powerful budgeting app designed to help you take control of your finances and stop living paycheck to paycheck. You can download YNAB here and start budgeting the right way today.

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3. Build an Emergency Fund

It is important that you set some money aside for emergencies in an emergency fund. Unfortunately, unexpected events can’t be anticipated. We just have to be prepared for the worst, which might happen sooner or later. It is essential that you have an emergency fund that covers your living expenses if need be.

Having a sizeable emergency fund takes a lot of time. This has to essentially be a part of your budget plan and your financial plan. This amount of money should be out of your sight and out of your mind so that it is there whenever you need it.

We all know saving money is a good habit, yet many of us still struggle to make regular deposits into our rainy-day accounts or even have a high-paying savings account.

If this sounds like you, take a look at the highest-paying savings accounts below.

4. Stretch Your Dollars

By now, you might have figured out what you want. Now, be resourceful and strategic when you spend on want you want. Try making essential changes to your lifestyle if needed. Look out for ways by which you can save more and spend less. Even if you think you can't save money, you can by finding clever ways to save like saving money on gas or getting free coupon books in the mail.

The more unnecessary expenditures you make, the more you get distracted from achieving your financial goals. Make it a habit to spend your money wisely, so that you do not fall into a situation where you are left living paycheck to paycheck.

5. Differentiate Between Good Debts and Bad Debt

Every person is supposed to understand the fact that not all debt is equal. There is a significant distinction between good debts and bad debts.

Good debts, just like mortgages, usually come along with low-interest rates. They have various tax benefits and support investments that grow in value. Bad debts on the other hand, like credit cards, tend to burden you with greater interest rates.

They do not offer any tax benefits and there is no hope as such for appreciation. They eventually only hamper your standard of living.

Therefore, while making a financial plan, it is important that you keep bad debts to a minimum. Try to not only reduce your bad debts but also look to get rid of them altogether.

6. Repay Debts Faster

The most important step to succeeding in your financial plan is paying off your debts, especially the bad ones. If you don’t stay on top of them, they can snowball, piling on interest and becoming a major source of stress.

Setting aside money specifically for debt repayment is crucial. At first, it may feel like a burden, but in reality, it’s lifting a weight off your shoulders. The fastest way to get out of debt is to pay it off strategically—focusing on one balance at a time and rolling those payments into the next debt as you go.

But if you’re drowning in debt and struggling to keep up, you don’t have to do it alone. If you have over $10,000 in debt, National Debt Relief can help you become debt-free faster.

They negotiate with creditors on your behalf to reduce what you owe—helping you break free from the cycle of endless payments. You can get a free debt analysis here and see what they can do to help you within minutes.

7. Know Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a crucial role in your financial health. A high score makes it easier to get approved for loans, credit cards, and even rental applications—all with lower interest rates and better terms. That means you’ll spend less on interest payments and keep more money in your pocket for saving and investing.

Regularly checking your credit score helps you understand where you stand and gives you the chance to fix errors, improve your credit habits, and qualify for better financial opportunities.

8. Pay Yourself First

Apart from all the expenses that you make over a month, make sure you set aside a portion of your salary each month to pay yourself first. This amount can be used to invest in a savings account for your future.

For people belonging to certain fields, who think they will never retire, the fact is that everyone will retire someday or the other. It is solemnly up to you to decide, if you want to be financially secure or not.

Final Thoughts

Taking control of your finances starts with a solid plan. Whether it’s creating a budget, cutting unnecessary expenses, or building an emergency fund, every small step brings you closer to financial freedom. The hardest part isn’t making the plan—it’s sticking to it.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, there are tools to make it easier. YNAB helps you budget effortlessly, and if debt is holding you back, National Debt Relief can help you escape the cycle. If you have over $10,000 in debt, they can work with creditors to reduce what you owe, so you can become debt-free faster.

Can you imagine life without debt? Get a free analysis from National Debt Relief here.

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• Then get one simple monthly payment that you can manage
• Get out of debt in as little as 24-48 months
• You don’t pay until they settle your debt
• A+ BBB rating and thousands of positive reviews

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The post Why Is It So Hard to Save Money? (6 Tips to Consider) appeared first on BeerMoney.

As of January 2025, the national average for a gallon of regular gas is $3.12, a considerable increase from the $1.83 average in 2009.

Rising crude oil prices and global events have made gas more expensive, but with the right strategies, you can still save money at the pump and improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Here’s how you can start saving on gas today.

How to Save Money on Gas for Your Car

Ever wondered why is it so hard to save money?

But finding ways to save money on your vehicle expenses isn't hard if you know where to look.

From buying a car for the right price and learning how to shop for car insurance, the savings can add up. But what about saving money on gas? Here are some ways to do just that.

1. Buy Discounted Gas Gift Cards

Some gas stations offer special gift cards that provide discounted gas rates or exclusive savings when used at their pumps. You can also find discounted gas gift cards on sites like GiftCardGranny, Raise, and CardCash, allowing you to save a few extra dollars per fill-up.

For even more savings, consider using cash back apps for gas, like Upside or GasBuddy, which can help you save up to $1 per gallon at the pump by offering cash rebates and exclusive discounts.

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• Save up to $1.00 per gallon
• Get instant cashback on every fill-up at thousands of gas stations nationwide
• No coupons, just cash back on gas
• Stack savings with apps for even bigger discounts

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2. Slow Down and Drive Steady

Many drivers enjoy the thrill of driving fast, but high speeds burn more fuel and increase gas costs. By maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration, you can improve fuel efficiency and save money at the pump. Developing a habit of driving smoothly and keeping your speed in check can lead to significant long-term savings on gas.

3. Strategically Time Your Trips to the Pump

Most gas stations raise prices before the weekend in anticipation of increased travel. To save money, refuel earlier in the week when prices tend to be lower. Additionally, some stations consistently offer cheaper gas, and you can use apps like Upside or GasBuddy to find the best prices near you and maximize your savings.

4. Avoid Excessive Idling

Letting your engine idle for too long wastes fuel and costs you more money. Whether you're warming up your car or waiting in a parking lot, turn off the engine if you'll be stationary for more than a minute. Modern vehicles don’t need long warm-ups, so minimizing idling can help you save gas and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.

5. Choose the Right Payment Method

Some gas stations charge extra for credit card payments due to processing fees, making cash the cheaper option. To avoid overpaying, look for stations where credit and cash prices are the same or use a rewards credit card like the Discover it® Cash Back that offers cash back on fuel purchases, helping you offset the extra cost while still earning benefits.

4. Use Cash Back Apps for Gas

Want to save money every time you fill up? Apps like Upside help you find the best gas prices near you and earn cash back on every gallon—no extra effort needed. Just claim an offer, pay with your card, and get real cash back. It’s that easy!

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• Save up to $1.00 per gallon
• Get instant cashback on every fill-up at thousands of gas stations nationwide
• No coupons, just cash back on gas
• Stack savings with apps for even bigger discounts

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7. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance

Routine maintenance plays a big role in fuel efficiency. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase resistance and cause your car to burn more fuel. Regularly change air and fuel filters to ensure your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Before a long trip, check your oil, tire pressure, and fluid levels to avoid unnecessary fuel waste and keep your vehicle in top shape.

8. Brake Smoothly and Strategically

Frequent and abrupt braking not only wears down your brakes faster but also wastes fuel. Try to maintain a safe following distance in traffic so you can coast rather than slam on the brakes. When approaching a stop sign or traffic light, ease off the accelerator early and let your car gradually slow down instead of braking hard at the last second.

9. Turn Off the Engine When Idle

Leaving your engine running while parked or waiting wastes gas and contributes to unnecessary emissions. If you’re stopping for more than a minute, turn off the engine instead of idling. Many modern cars no longer need long warm-up times, so starting and stopping the engine as needed is more fuel-efficient.

10. Reduce Wind Resistance

Wind resistance increases fuel consumption, especially at highway speeds. Keep your windows closed at high speeds, as open windows create drag that forces the engine to work harder. If you have roof racks, bike racks, or cargo carriers that you aren’t using, remove them to improve aerodynamics and reduce fuel waste.

11. Monitor Your Tire Pressure

Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Tire pressure can fluctuate due to temperature changes, so check it regularly and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Many gas stations offer free air pumps, so take advantage of them to maintain proper inflation.

12. Get Regular Engine Tune-Ups

A well-tuned engine runs more efficiently and burns less fuel. Follow your car manufacturer’s recommendations for scheduled maintenance, including spark plug replacements and timing adjustments. Keeping track of when your engine was last tuned up ensures it operates at peak performance and maximizes fuel savings.

13. Change Air and Fuel Filters

Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow to the engine, making it work harder and use more gas. If you live in a dusty area or drive frequently on unpaved roads, check and replace your air filters more often. A clean fuel filter also ensures better gas mileage and engine efficiency.

14. Use the Right Motor Oil

Using the wrong motor oil increases friction in your engine, forcing it to work harder and consume more fuel. Always use the oil recommended in your car’s owner’s manual to ensure optimal performance. Look for energy-conserving motor oils that contain friction-reducing additives to improve fuel economy.

15. Limit Air Conditioning Use

Running the air conditioner puts extra strain on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. On cooler days, use the fan or roll down the windows when driving at lower speeds. Parking in the shade or using a sunshade can help keep your car cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning.

16. Maintain a Steady Speed

Frequent speed changes burn more fuel than driving at a consistent pace. Use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration. If your car has an eco-driving mode, enable it to optimize fuel consumption.

17. Consider a More Fuel-Efficient Car

If you’re in the market for a new car, consider one with a higher miles-per-gallon (MPG) rating. Hybrid and electric vehicles offer significant savings on fuel costs, and some models are designed to maximize aerodynamics and engine efficiency. Even switching to a smaller or lighter vehicle can reduce gas expenses.

18. Remove Unnecessary Weight

Extra weight in your car forces the engine to work harder, increasing fuel consumption. If you’re carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or backseat, remove them to lighten the load. Roof racks and cargo carriers also add weight and wind resistance, so take them off when they’re not in use.

19. Check Your Gas Cap

A loose or damaged gas cap can allow fuel to evaporate, wasting gas and contributing to air pollution. If you notice a loose-fitting cap or smell gas near your car, consider replacing it with a new one to prevent leaks and improve fuel efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Gas prices fluctuate, but that doesn’t mean you have to overspend. By making small changes—like using gas rewards programs, maintaining proper tire pressure, and planning efficient routes—you can cut down on fuel costs without sacrificing convenience.

Joining a warehouse club, carpooling when possible, and using cash back apps like Upside can also add up to big savings over time.

Every little bit counts when it comes to stretching your fuel budget.

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The post Reduce the Pain at the Pump With These 19 Ways to Save Money on Gas appeared first on BeerMoney.