One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to save money. Whether you are saving up for something big, trying to recover from going overboard on spending during the holidays, or wanting to be fiscally sound, travel reduction is a great route for cutting expenses in the new year.
When considering ride sharing or other alternate modes of travel, most of us automatically think of how much we are going to save in gasoline expenses. However, the cost to operate a car is actually a lot more than what we pay at the pump. By reducing automobile usage and putting fewer miles on your car, you also can save by limiting wear and tear of your vehicle and possibly get a break on insurance costs.
But how much can you save? Pima Association of Governments’ Travel Reduction Program features an online link to AAA’s Commute Cost Calculator. By entering a few pieces of information into the calculator, you can quickly determine the daily, monthly and yearly cost to commute to work.
By carpooling, teleworking or using another alternative mode to eliminate a few trips a month, you can keep more money in your pocket. AAA estimates it costs between $0.50-1.00 per mile to operate a vehicle. Use the calculator at SunRideshare.org to find out exactly how much you spend and how much you could save.
Once you plug in the data and see your savings, use the information to spark change. If you are motivated to start or join a carpool, visit SunRideshare.org to sign up for a carpool that will work for you.
Interested in alternate forms of transportation such as transit, cycling or even a vanpool? Learn more about mode choices and other travel reduction options at PAGregion.com to support a healthy environment and a healthier you.
