Commuting can be a major expense. Between fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and parking, or public transit fares, the costs can quickly add up and eat into your budget. However, you can follow simple and practical strategies to save money on your daily commute. Here are 10 ways to keep more of your hard-earned dollars while still getting where you need to go.
Every dollar counts. The average commute costs hundreds if not thousands of dollars per year when you consider all of the costs, not to mention the value of your time. Reducing these costs can help stretch your paycheck further, helping you cover other essential expenses or save for future goals. Beyond the dollar value of financial savings, many cost-cutting strategies can reduce stress, minimize environmental impact, and even improve your health.
Navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze (also from Google) can help you find the fastest and most efficient routes to work. Even if you already know the route well, tools from Waze can identify traffic jams and suggest alternatives to avoid unnecessary delays and fuel consumption. You can also change settings to avoid tolls or take the HOV lane if you’re carpooling. Adjusting your schedule to commute during off-peak hours can also save time and money.
Public transit is often one of the most cost-effective ways to commute, particularly if your workplace is near a bus or train stop. Many cities offer discounted monthly passes or fare assistance programs for low-income riders. Also, check with your employer to see if they provide transit benefits or pre-tax deductions for commuting costs.
Sharing a ride with coworkers can significantly cut commuting expenses. Splitting fuel and parking costs makes driving more affordable, and it’s also better for the environment. Apps like Waze Carpool or CommuteWithEnterprise can help connect you with other commuters traveling the same route. Switching off driving every other day with one other driver would save you roughly 50% on your commute costs.
Biking or walking is an excellent way to save money and stay active if you live close enough to work. Many cities provide bike lanes and paths, making this option safer and more convenient. Some employers and local governments also offer incentives for bike commuters, such as subsidies or tax breaks.
Proper vehicle maintenance can go a long way in improving fuel efficiency and reducing long-term costs. Simple tasks like keeping your tires inflated, changing your oil on schedule, and replacing air filters can optimize your car’s performance. If you’re handy, consider learning basic maintenance skills to save on repair costs. You can find guides on changing your engine and cabin air filter on YouTube (search for your vehicle make, model, and year), and it only takes a few minutes, potentially saving you around $50 each time you change them.
Your driving habits have a significant impact on your fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive behaviors like rapid acceleration and hard braking, which burn more gas. Use cruise control to maintain a steady speed and improve fuel efficiency. If you want to stretch your mileage further, consider taking up the hobby of hypermiling.
Sign up for grocery or gas station loyalty programs to earn discounts on fuel purchases. Apps like GasBuddy can also help you find the cheapest gas prices in your area, ensuring you never overpay at the pump. You can also use a credit card with bonus cash-back rewards for gas purchases, but be sure to always pay off the card in full by the monthly due date to avoid interest charges.
Ask your employer about remote or hybrid work options if your job allows it. Even working from home one or two days a week can save significant money on commuting costs. When presenting the idea to your employer, highlight the financial and productivity benefits. You can work during your regular commute time, won’t be interrupted by coworkers walking by your workspace, and your commute could be just walking down the hall.
Some companies offer transportation stipends, mileage reimbursements, or parking discounts. Ask your HR department about available benefits if you’re unsure about your options. Additionally, consider using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for commuting expenses, which allows you to pay for eligible costs with pre-tax dollars.
Combine errands with your commute to avoid extra trips and save on fuel. Planning your week in advance can help minimize unnecessary driving and make your routine more efficient. For example, stop at the grocery store on the way home from work rather than on a separate trip.
Your daily commute doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By implementing even a few of these strategies, you can save money, reduce stress, and improve your overall quality of life. Start by evaluating your current habits and identifying the areas where you can make small, cost-effective changes. Over time, these savings can add up, leaving you with extra cash to spend or save as you see fit.
If your car is a gas guzzler and you want something with better fuel efficiency, you don’t have to go into debt with a car loan. Instead, use the goal-based saving1 feature on the Payactiv app to automate your saving every payday.
1Goal-based saving is a set-aside account, and you will not receive interest or other earnings on the funds within the goal-based account.
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