Cut the cost of getting around with our top travel tips so you have more money to enjoy in your wallet.
Car's aren't cheap to run so the most obvious way to save money is by simply not having one, however, as someone who lives in the heart of the British country side, I realise that for myself and for the many others who enjoy a rural (or even semi rural) way of life, not owning a car is something of an impossibility! So, having ruled out the obvious point, here are some suggestions as to how you might realistically save money on car travel.....
Downsize
Having a flash car is lovely but it can be an incredible drain on your finances. When you take into account the cost of insurance, maintenanance and fuel, not to mention paying for it in the first place, it isn't a particularly economical way to get around. While i'm not suggesting you run out and get a teeny three wheeler, downsizing to a more economical vehicle can do wanders for your wallet.
Be a one car family
If both you and your partner own your own vehicles it can be worthwhile at least entertaining the prospect of becoming a one car family. Obviously there are practical implications and you will need to carefully consider whther you'll be able to negotiate who has the car when. However, car sharing can be a much more viable option than most people initially think. Especially as you'll halve the amount of money you spend on your vehicle, which means if one of you needs to take the occassional taxi it should be well within your means.
If you've tutted your way through my previous suggestions, my next may seem slightly more practical to you.
Car share as much as possible
Only 5% of commuters take advantage of this money saving option which is not only kind to your wallet, but kind to your car and the environment too. Sharing your car journeys, whether this is on the school run, to the supermarket or to work can help reduce fuel costs, reduces wear and tear on your car, saves on parking and ultimately on your insurance as you will be doing fewer miles. Even if you have to drive, giving someone else a lift and asking for fuel money puts a little cash in your back pocket and makes the journey more worthwhile. Break even with friends by agreeing that whoever drives doesn't have to pay for parking or coffee.
Shop around
You should always, always, always shop around for car insurance quotes as unfortunately loyalty rarely pays. If you are keen to stay with your insurer then shop around first to find a lower quote and then go back to them and negotiate a lower price. If you are half of a couple, try insuring your partner on your car insurance as this may end up reducing the premium by placing you in a 'lower risk' statistic, if it works out more expensive then you can just requote for single cover.
Practice 'eco-safe' driving
Brushing up on your driving skills is quite possibly the easiest way to cut your fuel bills - the driving standards agency claims that by using better driving techniques, the average motorist could cut their fuel consumption significantly. This is not only much healthier for your wallet but also better for the environment. Known as eco-safe driving the DSA recommend a list of steps that you can take to reduce fuel consumption, emissions and wear and tear on your vehicle.
Get a bike
Using a bike to get around is a great way to save on travel and since the introduction of the Government backed 'cycle to work' scheme it's become even more affordable. Basically, its now possible to purchase a bike through your employer. They pay for it and then you 'rent' it back by making payments direct from your salary - meaning its completely tax free - over a period of 18 months at which point you can make a reasonable offer to purchase it outright (this tends to be for a very low amount).
By putting even a few of these money saving techniques into practice you'll be able to save a bundle on travel.
