If you’re one of 103.6 million Americans that AAA says are driving to and from their holiday destinations, make sure to check for gas prices when filling up. That’s because prices at the pump that jumped more than 20 cents recently to a national average, state average, and Osceola County average of $3.12.
According to AAA, a rise in oil prices is being blamed for the increase.
“Oil prices have shot up back above $70 a barrel in response to crude oil tanker ships being targeted in the Red Sea,” AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins said. “That’s creating a lot of concerns in the oil market about global supply and demand.”
Earlier this month, AAA predicted a record 6.6 million Floridians will travel 50 miles or more from home for the holidays.
The current average for a gallon of regular unleaded is 14-cent increase from last year’s average on the same day. Here are some effective tips on how to save on gas usage.
Tips for Saving on Gas
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your vehicle well-maintained. Regular oil changes and ensuring your tires are properly inflated can improve fuel efficiency.
- Drive Efficiently: Avoid sudden starts and stops. Accelerating smoothly and maintaining a steady speed can reduce fuel consumption.
- Reduce Idle Time: Turn off your engine when your vehicle is idle for more than a minute. Idling consumes more fuel than restarting the engine.
- Lighten the Load: Extra weight in your vehicle makes the engine work harder. Remove unnecessary items from your car to improve gas mileage.
- Use Gas Apps: Apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas prices in your area.
- Consider Carpooling: Sharing rides with others can significantly reduce your fuel costs.
- Plan Trips Wisely: Combine errands into one trip to avoid unnecessary driving.
- Explore Alternate Transportation: Whenever possible, use public transport, bike, or walk to save on fuel costs.
With careful planning and smart driving habits, it’s possible to mitigate the impact of rising gas prices. Staying informed about the latest gas rates and utilizing fuel-saving strategies can lead to significant savings over time.
