You've probably heard a lot of advice on saving gas by now. Usually most recommendations focus on technical aspects: proper tire pressure, tune ups and oil change... My article is about how to save on gas by changing some of your driving related habits.

1. Do you have to be there in person?

Many issues are easily resolved by E-mail, on line, video conferencing... Before driving somewhere, you should think about alternative ways to go about your business.

Can you fax documents instead of bringing them in person? Is application you need to fill available for on line download?

Also you have to compare delivery cost to how much money you would spend on gas driving to the store.

2. Cut your trips

Suppose your bank is located close to supermarket. Do you still make two separate trips to the bank and supermarket? You can save some money by going to both places in one trip.

You get the point. If you have to stop at two or three places that are close to each other, you should combine these visits in one trip.

3. Traffic updates, short cuts and alternative routes

Make it a habit to listen to traffic updates on your car radio. This way you can avoid traffic slow downs. However traffic information alone won't help you. You must know alternative routes and short cuts.

If your driving is limited only to major routes and highways, you ought to learn about other roads in your area. Alternative routes and short cuts can save you both, time and money.