Dear Chuck,
I am being hit hard by the cost of gasoline. Haven’t you written about how to save money on this in the past?
Shocked By Gasoline Prices
Dear Shocked By Gasoline Prices,
Yes, I have answered this question before but not during a time when prices were rising this sharply! You and millions of others are feeling the pinch at the pump along with all the other products impacted by the rising cost of oil.
Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy says, “As Russia’s war on Ukraine continues to evolve and we head into a season where gas prices typically increase, Americans should expect to pay more for gas than they ever have before. Shopping and paying smart at the pump will be critical well into summer.”
Here is a short list of things you can do to save some money:
Drive less when possible.
Inflate your tires.
Maintain your vehicle.
Fill your tank when half full.
Buy regular gas when possible.
Take advantage of loyalty and rewards cards.
Use com to find the cheapest gas.
Slow down and avoid hard braking and fast starts.
Remove unused items that weigh down your car.
Carpool, walk, bike, and use public transportation.
The cost of crude oil affects the prices of everything we buy due to the impact on shipping and trucking. Expect to pay more for food at the grocery store, when dining out, on heating bills, and on things made with petroleum, like plastics and fertilizer. Those who need a bigger car should be on the lookout for used models that sellers will unload if gas prices get exorbitant.
Consider what you can give up to cover the higher cost of gasoline and consumer goods. Turn down the thermostats, and dress in layers until temperatures rise this spring and summer.
Start a garden, grow some food, and shop at farmers’ markets. Supply an emergency long-term food pantry buying nonperishable food in bulk. Analyze vacation plans. Avoid extra airline fees when flying. Consider alternate means of transportation. It may be necessary to have a staycation or find a creative way to spend less while taking necessary time off.
When facing the lingering impact of the pandemic, a war, and inflation, there are many concerns right now. We can take comfort in God’s Word that reminds us that we have nothing to fear
Psalm 37:16 – “Better is the little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked.”
Psalm 112:7 – “He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.”