Ways to save money on Transportation!

Ways to save Money on Transportation

These days, we are so reliant on transportation. With many of our family members living thousands of miles away, requirements for our jobs, or just idle vacation time needed, transportation is becoming a major part of our world.

Gas prices are at an all time high and many are choosing to reduce their transportation fees, by limiting their activities or using alternate transportation modes such as airplanes, trains, and buses.

However, there is good news!

I just saved a lot of money by switching my insurance!…..

Ha! No really, there is GOOD news. And it’s right below in this special report on how to save money on transportation!

GASOLINE- Budgeting and allocating costs are always good when you are trying to manage your debts. Including managing your gas prices. It may sound tedious, but if you are looking to save hundreds of dollars a year on gas prices, then it is recommended that you compare the prices of different fueling stations. Keeping your engine tuned and your tires inflated at the proper pressure, are other important factors in saving on gas. Also, fueling the gas yourself at self-served stations, is a way to cut down on prices at the pump.

You can check out these tips and others at this web resource: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/

Buying or Leasing a car? Good for you. You can save money on leasing and purchasing a car as well. Keep reading.

Car leasing:

The worst thing to do is to decide to lease a car just because the payments are lower than that of a traditional auto loan.. BIG MISTAKE, yes the payment may lower, but in the end you do not OWN the car at the end of the lease. I know first hand, how confusing and complicated that car leasing can be. When you are shopping around consider the capitalized cost- or the price of the car, any down payment, monthly payments, and your trade-in-allowance. Also there may be various fees such as excess mileage, excess wear and tear, and even end-of-lease fees! Then you must consider the cost of buying the car at the end of the lease term. There is a publication that you may want to consider that was published by the Federal Reserve, it is called: Keys to Vehicle leasing: A consumer Guide.

Buying a used car:

Buying a used car, is sometimes a good way to cut down on the costs that you would inquire had you purchased a new car. However, there are important factors to consider when purchasing a used vehicle. First of all, it is important that you have a mechanic that you trust inspect the car, especially if the car is sold as is.

NOTE: YOUR HUSBAND/BOYFRIEND/SIGNIFICANT OTHER IS NOT ALWAYS A MECHANIC

I know that many of us women love to run to hubby or SO with car problems, and he may be able to correct some minor details but if you are purchasing a used car as is, I highly recommended that you uses someone that is a true professional. Because if your husband inspects the car and later it turns out to be a lemon….Well, you can just imagine the bickering that will go on in your house!

SAVE YOURSELF AN ARGUMENT!

Another tip to saving money on a used car is to compare the seller’s asking prices with the average retail price in a bluebook or another guide. You can usually find these publications at libraries, banks, and sometimes grocery stores.

And if you can get someone that you know and trust to sell you the car, even better! This individual is going to be less likely, for lack of a better word, “Screw you over”, and hey! They just may charge you a lower price for the car.

Buying a New car:

Who doesn’t love the smell of a fresh new car? Well, that car is not going to smell too good if you are paying too much money. And it is important to know that once you sign on the dotted line.. You are obligated to but that car! It is possible for you to saves thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your new car by purchasing a model that combines a low purchase prices with low financing, insurance, gasoline, maintenance, and repair costs. There are new car guides that you can pick up that contain such information.

Comparison shopping, is going to be the best when saving on a new car purchase as well. It is recommended that you call at least 5 dealers for price quotes and repair costs and let them know, that you are calling others for the information, they will usually quote you the best deal!

Renting a Car:

So far this year, if have rented 3 times! That may seem like a lot to you, and most families do not rent that much in a year, but it is very important when renting a car to be able to save on costs, for this is usually a good portion of your budget when you are on vacation.

Car rental companies can vary greatly, so it is important to shop around and get the best rates. It is important to ask if there are any additional charges such as an extra driver charge, gas or drop off fees. Just last week I called around and received quotes for drop off fees and they charged me MORE to drop off the car, than if I were to take the drive round-trip! ($250.00 or more in drop off charges- no kidding!)

Also, check with your auto insurance agent and credit card company in advance because they may already cover you on car rentals!

As well, student discounts, senior citizen discounts, military, and Club memberships such as AAA and Sam’s Club are also available through many companies. The best thing to do is to ASK!

Airline Fares:

Mostly everyone has taken a trip by plane, in fact, it is rare to hear of those that have never flown before, because airplane travel is by far fast and convenient travel. However, because of the convenience, airline travel can become very expensive. The first thing that you would need to do is call around to all of the airlines in your area and ask them what the lowest fare to your destination is. If you can be flexible on your flight times and dates, this may help you to find the best and lowest prices. Also, consider using low fare carriers or alternative airports. I know, it may seem scary to fly on a plane called ‘Skybus’, but I assure you that if they are flying, there are rules and regulations that they must adhere to, just like those big name carriers.

A helpful hint as well, would be to make certain that your trip include a Saturday evening stay over and purchase the ticket in advance. This could help you lower the price as significantly as two-thirds on a round trip ticket!

Although we are struggling in an economic downfall, high gas prices, and interest rates, vacation time, and time away is very important. Do not limit your travel by staying at home locked away from the world. Get out there! Use these tips, and start saving money on your airfare today!

Also: Stay tuned for more of my postings, next I will be talking about how to save money on Insurance! AND NO, its not by switching to Geico! And subscribe to my BLOG where you can find even more information on credit repair, debt management, and ways to save!