How to navigate higher gas prices
Whether you’re driving through Denver traffic, making deliveries on the Western Slope or heading to the mountains for a weekend trip, high gas prices put extra pressure on family budgets and business costs. The good news is that small, steady changes in your habits and routines can lead to real savings over time.
Tips for everyday drivers
Start with how you drive. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking wastes fuel. Smooth driving can improve your fuel economy by 20-30%. On the highway, try to keep your speed under 65 mph when it’s safe, gas mileage drops quickly at higher speeds. Remove heavy items from your trunk and ensure your tires are properly inflated. Low tire pressure can reduce efficiency by 3-5%.
Plan your trips wisely. Combine several errands into one trip rather than making many short drives. Use free apps like GasBuddy, Waze, or Google Maps to find the cheapest nearby gas stations and avoid peak prices. Many people save 10-20 cents per gallon by filling up midweek or early in the morning.
Take advantage of rewards programs. Stores like King Soopers and Safeway let you earn fuel points that can save 10-30 cents per gallon. Wholesale clubs often have some of the lowest prices for members. You might also consider a gas credit card that offers cash back, some offer 2-5% back on fuel purchases. Just be sure to pay the full balance every month to avoid interest charges.
Don’t forget regular maintenance. Get tune-ups on schedule, replace dirty air filters, and use the correct octane for your car. Most vehicles run just fine on regular 85/87-octane rather than the more expensive premium.
For business owners and fleet operators
Businesses with trucks, delivery vans, or employees who drive frequently feel these price increases even more acutely. Good route planning is one of the simplest ways to save. Tools such as Route4Me or Google’s fleet programs can help reduce unnecessary miles. Encourage carpooling and offer rewards to workers who take the bus, bike, or work from home when possible.
When it’s time to replace vehicles, consider more fuel-efficient options. Hybrids and electric vehicles can save money over the long run, especially as Colorado’s charging station network expands and incentives remain available. In the meantime, reduce idling, turn off the engine during long stops.
Look into bulk fuel discounts or business fuel cards to secure lower prices and better tracking. Adjust delivery times to avoid heavy traffic and consider lighter packaging or combining shipments to reduce trips.
Be strategic and save
Higher gas prices are a challenge, but they don’t have to hurt your wallet as much. By adopting better driving habits, shopping smarter, joining rewards programs, and making small operational changes, individuals and businesses alike can save money.
Over the course of a full year, these steps can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Stay aware of price trends, stay flexible, and treat fuel as an expense worth watching. Small, smart choices today can bring real relief at the pump tomorrow.
