Finance Guide

The guide to living cheap includes ideas on how to save money on transportation costs. This includes gas, service, parking costs etc.

1) Gas is easily wasted if you do not properly plan. Examples of poor planning would be running to the store to buy a staple, such as toilet paper or toothpaste. All staples should be bought in bulk…on sale…with coupons. Running out of a staple is a no-no and the gas you use is wasted. At today’s prices that can add up. Plan your shopping where you can do it all in one day…Thursday is always good the coupons come out on Wednesday. Car pool where you can.

2) Car service…if you are going to the dealer for regular non-warranty service you are most certainly overpaying. Find a reputable service center; use the discounts available from the flyers in the newspaper to cut cost. If you go to the dealer for your oil changes and such you are wasting money. In addition, if your dealer has valets in white shirt and tie…run. Who do you think is going to pay for these extras?…you guessed it you do.

3) Parking costs. If you do any traveling and are not on expense account, you pay excessively to park at an airport. Examine all options you may have. An airport shuttle service may be cheaper if you are gone for any length of time. Can you take a bus (or BART or such) if so it is much cheaper. Look at parking at an airport motel, use their shuttle service…many have reasonable room rates and allow you to park for 2 to 3 weeks. You do not rush to make an early plane this way either.

Your guide to living cheap will address areas with savings potential. Your auto and related expenses can be big expenses. Watch them and save. Enjoy.