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Are inflation and the rising cost of living putting a strain on your wallet? Here are eight tips to help you save money every day. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it could help you save money at the pump.

1. Accelerate slowly. In the car, the more quickly you get going, the more gas you burn. Press the accelerator pedal gently and gradually. Take 5 seconds to accelerate to 20 km/h after you have made a stop. Avoid unnecessary braking by letting your vehicle coast instead. This should improve the energy efficiency of your driving.
2. Drive slower. When driving, reduce your speed, both for your safety (and that of others) and your finances. Driving at 120 km/h instead of 100 km/h burns 20% more fuel! It’s a high price to pay to save a few minutes of travel time.
3. Drive at a steady speed. Acceleration and deceleration are expensive. According to Natural Resources Canada, fuel consumption increases by more than 20% when vehicle speed varies between 75 km/h and 85 km/h every 18 seconds. Whenever possible, use your vehicle’s automatic cruise control.
4. Open (or close) the windows. When driving in town, forget the air conditioner. This can increase fuel consumption by 20%. On the highway, it’s the other way around.
5. Compare. Use Info essence, a tool that lets you compare the realistic price calculated by CAA-Quebec with the average price at the pump in your area. Then you’ll know whether it’s better to go to the pump now or wait before filling up.
6. Learn. Take an online eco-driving course to learn money-saving tips. It’s free and promises to help you reduce your fuel consumption by 25%.
7. Climb aboard. If available in your area, take the bus or metro. Public transit companies offer significant discounts, or even free rides, to riders 65 and over. It may be a new experience for you, but adopting this new habit should save you a lot of money.
8. Walk. Where there is safe infrastructure, and if you are physically fit, choose active transportation. With the exorbitant price of gasoline, it may be worthwhile to make some trips on foot. To go further and faster, take your bike. You’ll be physically active and save money at the same time. Your heart and your wallet will thank you.