The Worth of Driving Out of Your Way for Cheaper Gas
When considering whether it is worth driving out of your way to get cheaper gas, several important factors should be taken into account. This includes the distance and fuel efficiency, current gas prices, time, total costs, and frequency of fills. Let's explore each of these factors in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Distance and Fuel Efficiency
Calculating the extra distance you drive to get to a cheaper gas station is crucial. If the savings on gas are less than the cost of the extra gas you use to get there, it may not be worth the effort. For instance, if your car gets 20 miles per gallon (mpg), driving an extra mile would cost you 5 cents. This adds up if you are driving 10 miles to save 5 cents per gallon, as you would lose 25 cents in fuel alone.
Consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle as it plays a pivotal role. A super-efficient car might allow you to save more by driving a shorter distance, whereas a less-efficient vehicle might not justify the extra drive.
Current Gas Prices and Savings Calculation
The price difference between gas stations is a key consideration. A few cents per gallon may not seem significant, but when filling up a large tank, it can accumulate. For example, if you need to fill 15 gallons, a 2-cent savings per gallon means you're saving just 30 cents. This might not be worth the extra miles driven if those miles cost you more in fuel.
Additionally, you might not save as much if you only fill up a small portion of your tank, as the cost of driving to and from the cheaper gas station can quickly negate any savings.
Time Spending and Total Costs
Time is another critical factor. If driving to a cheaper gas station takes a significant amount of time, it can detract from the overall benefit of any savings. Consider the total time it will take to drive to the cheaper station, refuel, and return. This time can be better spent elsewhere, especially if you need to factor in any traffic or delays.
Total costs extend beyond just the cost of fuel. Think about the wear and tear on your vehicle and potential tolls you might incur. Every mile driven has a cost, and driving extra miles might not be economically beneficial.
Frequency of Gas Fills
Savings accumulate over time, especially if you regularly fill up. Even small savings can add up significantly. In this case, it might be beneficial to seek out cheaper gas stations more frequently.
However, making this a routine can be risky. If there is no nearby cheaper station, you might end up burning more gas to go out of your way, which can negate the savings. It's important to find a balance that fits your lifestyle and driving habits.
Conclusion
In summary, the decision to drive out of your way for cheaper gas depends on several factors. If the extra distance and time outweigh the savings, it may not be worth it. However, if the savings are substantial and the extra distance is minimal, it could be beneficial. Always do the math to ensure that you are making an economically sound decision.