My dad and I drove across the country to visit his college friend Scotty in the 1970s. That tells you I’m no older than Jack Benny, like 39 or even younger. (Some of you are probably wondering who Jack Benny was.)
Anyway, I remember the gasoline shortage of the seventies. You could only get gas on certain days of the week, depending on your license plate. When we got to Scotty’s house, we relaxed, sat around the table, and Scotty asked my dad, “Did you have any gas problems?”
My dad rubbed his stomach and said, “Ohhh, that restaurant near the Utah border gave me the devil.”
It was a few minutes before they both realized that Scotty was talking about gasoline and my dad was talking about Beano.
Back then, people were just beginning to worry about emissions and pollution. It is true that the government lowered the speed limit to 55 mph to save gas. But these days, people are diligently looking for ways to enjoy a great road trip, feel positive about contributing to the environment, and still keep their wallets closed most of the time.
Here are some tips to save money on the go:
– You don’t get that many air filter and lube oil changes per year, so schedule one just before your road trip. Your car will run more efficiently. It will burn oil better and pollute less.
– Check your tires just before the trip. Look in your car manual to find out what the ideal air pressure is. This will ensure better mileage and is easier on your tires. Whether you are traveling or not, you should have your tires checked monthly.
– Keeping it at 55 mph is still an effective way to reduce gas use. Are you one of today’s impatient travelers who has to run, run, run? Imagine you’re back in the 70’s and slow down a bit. On the highway, 55 is the virtual peak of fuel efficiency. And preserving your rubber tires keeps them out of overloaded landfills.
– Plan your route before starting your trip. That way you won’t get lost, which costs you time and fuel, not to mention your goodwill. Try the AAA website for a TripTik®; it has changed to keep up with the computer age. Unlike some routing websites, TripTik® shows you where to expect construction and marks points of interest, which you can click to add to your itinerary. And you no longer need to be a AAA member to access this feature.
– Before you leave home, turn off the heat or air conditioning, turn off night lights, computers and printers, and unplug DVD players, coffee makers, or any other appliances with a timer or clock. Everyone uses electricity, even if you’re not home. Your electricity meter will thank you.
One last suggestion: put on a black hippie wig and drive a flower van. People will be suspicious of you and will keep their distance. This conserves the gas you waste when you brake unnecessarily for other traffic.
Have a good trip!