We know being a young driver can be expensive (driving lessons, insurance... the list goes on). But there are ways to minimise the costs of being on the road. If you’re fed up of watching your money disappear into your fuel tank, follow our simple tips to help you save money on fuel.
Be a fuel efficient driver
We know it’s not always possible to go out and buy a brand new car with the latest fuel efficient technology, so it’s important that you know how to save money on fuel by changing your driving habits instead. Fuel consumption isn’t just down to the distance you drive; the way you get there can make a huge difference too.
Get rid of your lead foot
Making sure you’re not too heavy footed on the gas and brake pedals will help you save money on fuel. Gentle acceleration and braking is one of the best ways to keep fuel costs down, so remember to ease off the gas pedal when approaching junctions and traffic lights instead of slamming the brakes on when you get there.
Shed some pounds
Don’t worry, we’re not asking you start spending hours in the gym. Losing some of the weight from your car will make you spend less on petrol or diesel in the long run. Get rid of anything which you’re hoarding in there unnecessarily to make sure you’re not spending extra at the pumps. So If you’re the one of those people who keep their whole lives in their car, this piece of advice is for you!
Don’t get lost
Planning your route can make a real difference when it comes to saving money on fuel. If you’re regularly driving around in circles trying to find places you could be spending far more than you bargained for on fuel. Plan your route if you’re driving somewhere unfamiliar to make sure you don’t wrack up any extra miles.
Don’t leave things running
Electrical appliances like your de-misters and heated windscreen all increase your fuel consumption, so it’s important not to leave them on for longer than necessary. And we know it doesn’t get much action in this weather anyway, but you should also cut down on your air con usage.
Keep your car healthy
Car maintenance can seem like an extra cost which you just don’t need as a young driver, but keeping your car in good nick is one of the best ways to save money in the long run. Not only will this minimise your chances of anything going wrong at its MOT, but keeping your engine maintained will make it more fuel efficient too.
Shop around… but not too much
Shopping around is one of the best ways to save money on fuel. The prices are often lower where there is lots of competition, so try not to buy fuel in areas where there’s not much choice. Having said that, don’t shop around so much that you counteract your savings. Remember, the more you drive about looking for cheap fuel, the more fuel you’ll use.
Be a savvy buyer
1p off a litre might not sound like a lot but it all adds up. Make sure you use fuel vouchers or coupons when you get them, and don’t forget you can use your various supermarket advantage cards at many petrol stations. Spending money on fuel might just save you money elsewhere.