For What It's Worth: Saving Gas

WSVN -- Student Michael Oliva was planning a road trip to Boston.

Michael Oliva: "I've never done it before, but I checked it on the computer and it is about 28 hours worth of driving."

But Michael knew it would be a little harder than packing some bags and putting the car in drive.

Michael Oliva: "I just filled up yesterday, and it was $70 just to fill up."

Just because gas prices are high, you don't have to put the brakes on your summer plans. Seven's Financial Expert Allie Jablon says following a few rules of the road can keep you from guzzling gas.

Allie Jablon, Seven's Financial Expert: "The best way to increase your fuel efficiency is to stop driving like Mario Andretti."

First, take it easy on the road. The faster you go, the more gas you waste.

Allie Jablon, Seven's Financial Expert: "At 75 miles per hour, you can look to spend up to 60 cents more per gallon of gas."

Next, keep it steady. You will pay more at the pump by putting the pedal to the metal and slamming on the breaks.

Allie Jablon, Seven's Financial Expert: "When you are driving far distances, keeping your car on cruise control, it can really help to conserve gas."

To make up for paying more for gas, look to cash-in on deals offered by certain hotels at your destination.

Allie Jablon, Seven's Financial Expert: "They are offering $30 to $50 gas credits when you stay at those hotels."

You might even want to look at flying. If you plan it right, it can actually be cheaper than driving.

Allie Jablon, Seven's Financial Expert: "So you really can take advantage of flying at non-peak times and maybe getting some great webfares for these airlines."

Michael did that and found out flying paid off in the long run.

Michael Oliva: "It's a two and a half hour flight, so, you can see there, I can probably spend more time over there, have a lot of fun and still have money left over at the end of the day."

Allie says that's the key. Don't let money keep you from having family time this summer.

Allie Jablon, Seven's Financial Expert: "Take the vacation because these are the times that your children are going to remember for the rest of their lives."

Allie Jablon
www.alliejablon.com