Making the Most of Your Family Car
By making conscious decisions about how you drive and what you drive, the results can have a big impact
As a resource, many families treasure their vehicle as an asset that lets them pack a lot into both the car and the day. Between school supplies, sports equipment, groceries and the dog, cars have become the modern family's caravan. Believe it or not, there are ways your car can be even more resourceful. By making conscious decisions about how you drive and what you drive, the results can have a big impact on both your budget and the environment.
Tips to Make Driving the Family Car More Efficient
- Pick the right car: If you're a multi-car family, then you have the luxury of choosing the most fuel-efficient vehicle for whatever task lies ahead. Pick the car that will give you the best gas mileage for the type of driving you'll be doing, city or highway.
- Combine your errands: Instead of heading out and coming home multiple times - or at least more than is necessary - think about planning your trips so you go out once and get a few tasks done. You'll drive fewer kilometres and use less fuel.
- Avoid rush hour: If possible avoid heading out during rush hour. Stop-and-go traffic guzzles gas and you end up producing a lot more pollution.
- Educate the next generation of drivers: In the UK, driving tests include questions on eco-driving. This is a way of driving that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, fuel consumption and accident rates. Learner drivers are taught tips such as accelerating and braking less aggressively and changing gears sooner.
- Include active transportation: Consider combining your car use with other transportation options such as transit, walking, biking, or even ride-sharing. You'll get some exercise, save on gas and possibly get a reduction on your car insurance depending on how much you decide to limit your car use.
- Choose a fuel-efficient rental car: If you're renting while on holidays or on a work trip, request a car that's rated for good fuel economy. And rent a model that's suited for the type of driving you'll mostly be doing, city or highway.
- Make sure you know where you're going: Getting lost is neither fun nor good for the mileage. There's no excuse these days to be without a planned route, either from the Internet or a GPS. Save your sanity and some gas (and the environment!) and have your directions in hand before heading out.
If your family has a story to share about making the most of your car, leave a comment below to help other users be more TravelSmart.