Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Summer is Coming and so is Rising Gas Prices

As gas prices rise we see families looking at how they can conserve some money but still get out for a vacation.  We also know that when the rising prices back in 2008 that families reduced the distance they would travel due to those peaking prices.  So why wouldn’t we expect to see families do the same thing this year? 

This will be another year of local travel.  I think we’ll see more families keeping their overall travel down just like we saw in 2008.  The average distance traveled will be about 620 miles and average spending is expected to be $1,052 per family, AAA says.

Okay, what else will make your trip easier? Well I would suggest either having your vehicle checked over by a good mechanic or your husband if he knows how. Check the tires, filters, belts, brakes, change the oil etc.

Then the day before your trip get your vehicle cleaned really well, and fill up on gas. After that come home and pack what you will be taking with you into your vehicle, things like your overnight bags, travel pillows etc.  If you take extra blankets along these can be draped over the back of the seat so that they do not take up any additional room. And travel pillows can be placed next to whoever will be using them.

Money-saving strategies have even gone mobile. Apps like FuelFrog allow you to track your mileage to monitor gas prices in your city and your car’s gas efficiency over time. It’s one way that using a cell phone can actually improve your driving.

Whatever you decide to do I hope you have a great summer, and spend a lot of quality time with your children.

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