The three-day weekend is coming up quick and many Americans will be looking to pack up their cars and hit the road. Unfortunately, those planning on fueling up in Sacramento may be looking at gas prices reaching above $4 a gallon.
Gas prices this Memorial Day weekend are expected to be the highest since the same time in 2014. However, there are ways to cut down on gas costs.
Here are 7 ways to save:
1. Easy on the brakes.
The way you drive affects fuel economy. Braking or accelerating too quickly can use up gas, according to Gas Buddy. Driving around 55 mph is optimal speed for saving fuel. Driving too fast or too slow could mean not saving as much gas as you could be saving.
2. Stop using premium gas.
The majority of cars don't need to use premium gas and run just fine without it, according to NerdWallet. Don't use premium gas unless your car requires it. If your car recommends premium but runs efficiently on lower grade fuel, there's no reason to use a higher grade.
3. Learn where to find cheaper gas.
Gas stations in affluent areas tend to have higher prices since people who live in the area typically are least price sensitive, according to Gas Buddy. Land taxes for stations located on more valuable land are higher and this can pass on to fuel prices. Stations near the freeways are also usually a little more expensive than if you drive into a city for a few blocks.
Buying gas from grocery stores or wholesale stores with gas stations such as Safeway or Costco is often cheaper since these companies will sell gas close to cost or at a loss to get people into their stores to buy other items. Many of these stores also offer in-store credit when you purchase their gas.
Try using a gas station app or website such as Gas Buddy, AAA, Fuel Finder or Gas Guru to find the best prices.
4. Pay with cash.
Many gas stations offer a lower price when you pay for fuel with cash instead of card. The difference can be about 10 to 15 cents a gallon. If you do decide to use a card it's a good idea to consider using a cash-back credit card. The card price may be higher but you could receive a reward higher than the cash savings.
5. Check tire pressure.
Having low tire pressure can lower your gas mileage by 0.2 percent for every 1 psi drop in the average pressure of all tires., according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You can improve your gas mileage by 0.6 percent or up to 3 percent by keeping tires properly inflated.
6. Use a fuel-efficient car.
If driving a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is an option, take that car rather than the six or eight cylinder engine car. Driving a hybrid or electric car on your trip would save you even more money on gas if renting or borrowing one makes sense.
7. Share rides!
If you're planning on getting away for the three-day weekend, invite friends and family to join you and share the ride. You can split gas costs or other necessities and cut down on the overall money you'll spend on your trip.