The end of year is upon us and everybody deserves a break. Unfortunately the economy is still hurting and money is tight. Add all the Christmas gifts, accommodation including food expenses and suddenly there is not much money left for fuel to complete the annual trip in the first place! The following tips aim to lessen the fuel cost impact on your wallet this festive season:
- Service your vehicle before the trip – the vehicle will run more efficiently;
- Check your tyre pressures (and condition) – especially with a fully loaded vehicle. Underinflated tyres result in higher resistance, excessive wear and can be a safety concern owing to elevated tyre temperatures;
- Avoid roof racks if possible – a loaded roof rack adds plenty of aerodynamic drag;
- Lower maximum speeds – aerodynamic drags increase with the square of speed. You will also save on speeding fines and be less stressed;
- Pack as lightly as possible (easier said than done) – extra weight will cost you;
- Avoid aircon (or opening a window) as it saps extra energy. Impossible you might say but have you considered travelling very early in the morning when it is still cool? Even if you avoid aircon for part of the journey you will save;
- Accelerate and brake gently to conserve energy. Nobody wants to spend more time than necessary next to a truck but rather wait for a clear opportunity to overtake rather than gunning it to gain five minutes;
- Only use cruise control on level roads. It is better to slow a little going uphill and gaining momentum again going downhill. You will have a better idea of how much fuel is being used if you have your foot on the accelerator.
- Watch the readout of the instantaneous and average fuel consumption (if you vehicle has a trip computer) and alter your driving style to improve the figures;
- If you are traveling by yourself, have you considered taking another person(s) to share the fuel cost? If you won’t need transport on the other side of the journey why not take a luxury bus or even fly? It might be cheaper;
- If you have two vehicles in the household – take the most fuel efficient one. Will you really use the 4×4 capability this year?
Have you got any tips? Please add them to the comment section.