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"Say no to cabs!" Why would you spend more money on getting to and from the restaurant or bar than actually at the place? I just don't get it. So rule numero uno, of course, is to take public transportation or drive yourself whenever possible. Here are some tips on how to save money by driving or taking public transportation. Either way, no taxis!
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Cutting Gas Costs: Gas prices have become outrageous, almost painful. There's a few things you can do to get better gas mileage, which have other benefits too. I've noticed that keeping my car in good condition gives me better gas mileage. For example, getting the oil changed regularly, rotating the tires and keeping the tires inflated. There are plenty of places with deals on car upkeep. For example, some places will either give you a discount or include multiple other services for one price if you go early in the morning or if you join a mailing list. So do your research to find a deal on getting your car taken care of and it may return the favor by giving you better gas mileage. So everyone's happy! Also, Speeding and rapid breaking or accelerating use more gas. Driving safely has multiple so many benefits. The less weight in your car, the better mileage you get, so try and keep your car as empty as possible. See
www.fueleconomy.gov for more ideas on what you can do to get better gas mileage.
Car Pooling. Not only is it boring to drive places alone, but it's also more expensive. You save money on gas by sharing rides with people going the same place and can also save money on parking. It just doesn't make sense for 10 people to drive 10 different cars all to the same place. People in general don't like to drive by themselves anyway, so ask around and share the drive.
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No Car? Take the Bus or Train. Not only is it cheaper, but taking public transportation is better for the environment too. Now, calm down, taking the bus is not that bad, you will be ok. I promise. Plus, while you're on the bus or train, you can read a book or your kindle, listen to music or my personal favorite, people watch. In Chicago, the bus and el/subway are only $2.25 per ride and transfers to other buses and trains are only 25 cents. Monthly passes and transit cards are also available which may cost you even less. Go to
http://www.chicago-card.com/. The Metra system also has monthly passes or 10-Ride passes that can save you money on your train rides. See
www.metrarail.com. Taking public transportation will save you the cost of gas, car upkeep and parking if you were to drive or it saves you on the outrageous fee to take a cab, which includes that extra $1.00 they include because of gas prices and the cost per additional rider. And if you're a germaphobe like me, just remember to bring your hand sanitizer for the ride. :)
If you still insist on taking a cab, at least know how much money you're going to waste beforehand. I found a site where you can estimate the cost of your cab fare ahead of time. Check out
www.taxifarefinder.com before you hail that taxi.
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