Commuting to and from work in a car can be one of the most expensive parts of your life.* Your commute includes more than just the gas you buy for your car. You also have to consider maintenance costs, insurance payments, registration fees, and more. Whether you’re driving, taking public transit, or using a combination of the two, there are plenty of ways you can cut back on your commuting costs. So, in this guide, we’re going to help you maintain your budget by sharing some ways to save on your commuting costs.
Ways to Save Money on Your Daily Commute
First things first. Before we dive into this list of ways to save on your daily commute, let’s first review your current commuting habits. Are you taking the most efficient route? Could you possibly work from home or adjust your hours to avoid peak travel times? These are all things to consider when trying to find ways to save money!
1. Improve Gas Mileage
One way to lower your commuting expenses is by improving your gas mileage. If you can’t avoid driving to work, regular maintenance is important as it can improve your fuel efficiency. Making each tank last a little longer means you fill up less frequently throughout the month. Some of the best changes you can make to your daily commute could include:
- Maintaining your car properly to avoid major maintenance. Small things such as proper tire inflation and regular oil changes mean can allow your car to save gas throughout your drive.
- Avoid left turns on your commute. These force your car to idle and waste gas. Instead, plan a route to work that relies on right turns as much as possible.
- Reduce the weight in your car. Don’t haul unnecessary items, because the additional weight can lower your gas mileage.
- Avoid traffic. Arriving at work early or leaving late means you aren’t stuck sitting in rush hour traffic wasting gas every day.
If you and your partner both commute, carpool if possible. If not, give the most fuel-efficient vehicle to the person with the longer drive. This way, both of you can save on commuting costs.
2. Ways to Save By Using Public Transit
If you primarily drive to work, you might want to compare car costs with public commute expenses. Is there a bus or train route that can take you to work quickly and easily? Usually, these costs are much less per month than maintaining your car and paying for gas. Plus, you won’t have to tack extra miles onto your car, making it last longer. Completely converting to public transportation also allows you to save on costs related to vehicle registration and auto insurance.
3. Discounts from the Government
People who choose public transport to and from work often don’t realize they could save even more when they report their commute costs to the government. Most states allow you to file a tax deduction for your transit or vanpool costs. This lowers your taxable income substantially, and you can end up paying less on your taxes.
In some states, you may have to go through your employer to receive benefits for your commute. Like a 401k or other company benefits, ask your employer about providing transit passes for their employees, as the company can take a tax deduction and business expenses. You can also ask if your company provides any of the following:
- Transit Subsidies: Pre-tax transit benefits or discounts on monthly passes.
- Parking Discounts: Reduced rates or reimbursement for parking fees.
- Bike Storage: Secure bike parking or showers and lockers for cyclists.
4. Carpooling and Ridesharing
Carpooling is a great way to share commute costs with several others instead of taking the entire burden on yourself. In areas that don’t have good public transportation options, carpooling is the next best thing. You can also look into taking advantage of the tax benefits that this option offers.
Many workplaces also have carpool programs or bulletin boards where you can find others in your area looking to share a ride. Explore your local CommuterChoice listings to find others who live in your area and commute to work near you.*
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft also offer shared rides at a discounted rate compared to a private ride. If your commute isn’t too far, this could be a convenient and affordable alternative to driving alone.
5. Cycling and Walking
If you live close to your workplace, consider taking a bike or walking. Not only does this save money, but it’s an easy way to get consistent exercise and helps reduce your carbon footprint! Many cities even have designated bike lanes.
6. Work From Home
Working from home can significantly cut down on your commuting costs. Working remote just one or two days a week can save you money on gas, transit fares and vehicle wear and tear. So, if your job can be done remotely, ask your employer if telecommuting is a possibility!
7. Flexible Work Hours
If your employer won’t allow you to work remotely, ask if you can adjust your work hours. Commuting during off-peak hours can help you cut back on travel time and gas costs. Starting your day earlier or later than when everyone else is commuting to work can help you avoid the rush hour traffic jams that can lead to wasted fuel and higher travel times.
8. Ways to Save with a Hybrid or Electric Car
If you’re in the market for a new car, consider switching to a hybrid or electric vehicle. These cars can help reduce gas costs significantly. They’re also often eligible for tax incentives. While the thought of buying a new car may seem financially irresponsible if you’re looking for ways to save money, choosing a fuel-efficient car can help you save money in the long run.
9. Lower Your Insurance
Car insurance is undoubtedly the most expensive part of owning a car. Thousands of dollars a year go to ensuring you’re covered in case of an accident. Just like shopping around for the right credit card interest rate or bank for your needs, you can explore different insurance options to find the best one.
Try These Ways to Save On Your Next Commute
As you can see, there are tons of different ways to save money on your daily commute. By taking a look at your current situation and exploring different options, you can find ways to cut down on your commuting expenses. Whether this looks like switching to public transit, carpooling, or biking, small changes can add up to big savings over time.
Looking for more ways to save money? Explore our blog for savings tips on things from saving on groceries to learning about how you can cut your energy costs.
*High-interest loans can be expensive and should be used only for short-term financial needs, not long-term solutions. Customers with credit difficulties should seek credit counseling. The opinions expressed above are solely the author’s views and may or may not reflect the opinions and beliefs of the website or its affiliates. Cash Factory USA does not provide financial advice.
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