like gas prices slightly downward trend this week, after some of the highest national averages seen in recent months, some Canadians may be thinking twice about planning their usual summer road trip plans.
a june poll published by the South Central Ontario division of the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) found that 64 percent of respondents said rising fuel prices are likely to affect their road trip plans.
The average price of gasoline in Canada has reached record levels in recent weeks, with prices rising to more than $2 in some regions. The CAA noted that the national average is currently at $1.95, as of July 6.
While it’s impossible to avoid a sudden spike in pumps, there are a few ways to save money on gas bills, most notably having a plan before you hit the road. CTVNews.ca looks at how drivers can save while taking road trips this summer.
STAY UP TO DATE ON GAS PRICES
According to Canada Drives car buying platform.
The platform also encourages travelers to check the CAA’s website and the Gas Predictions site for gas price predictions in the coming months. gasoline wizardif they plan to travel in the future.
DRIVE SMARTER TO PAY LESS
Drivers spend 22 cents more on gas for every 5 miles over 50 mph they travel on the highway, according to Gas Buddy, an app that tracks changes in gas prices in real time.
“If possible, slow down on the freeway or even take the scenic route instead of the interstate to save a lot of money on gas,” says Gas Buddy in his website.
“Similarly, practicing bad driving habits like aggressive braking, speeding and frequent acceleration can cost you at the pump. Don’t let the summer heat “warm up” your road rage—calm down on the road and let the savings roll.”
Canada Drives says aggressive driving uses 35 percent more gas than driving near the speed limit, calling it “the single most important way to put a dent in your monthly gas bill.”
National Resources Canada found that while hard braking can reduce time to destination by four percent, it increases fuel consumption by 39 percent.
USE LOYALTY PROGRAMS AND APPS
Some member rewards programs and gas stations that provide discounts on gas purchases are Shell fuel rewards, that’s extra, petro pointsY Costco.
Canada Drives also recommends finding out which station near you offers the most affordable deal.
Canada Drives suggests using GasBuddy, Waze and the Canadian Automobile Association mobile app to help.
MAINTAIN YOUR CAR, REMOVE DEAD WEIGHT
The more cargo a car carries, the more gas it will burn as it will work harder to move forward. Drivers are likely to get better gas mileage if they remove all the unnecessary items that add weight to their vehicle, according to Canada Drives.
“You don’t need a bike rack in the winter or a ski rack in the summer; they just add unnecessary weight and make your car use more energy,” a blog post at the CAA Quebec division website grades
“Consider this: with every 25kg load, there is a one percent increase in fuel consumption.”
It’s also important for drivers to make sure their car is up to date on maintenance and that the tires are always properly inflated. Whether cars should use less or more air conditioning depends on the vehicle, says Canada Drive.
“If you have a smaller, more streamlined car, use the air conditioning. If your vehicle is bigger and bulkier, open some windows,” he writes on his website.