Drive smarter and save on fuel
Fuel is one of the biggest household expenses, but small changes can really stretch a tank further. Keep your tyres properly inflated, stick to the speed limit, and avoid sudden braking or acceleration – smooth driving is cheaper driving. Regular servicing also helps your engine run more efficiently. Planning your trips in advance, so you’re not doubling back or making multiple runs, saves time and fuel too.
Cut down on parking costs
Parking fees in busy areas can be as painful as filling up your car. Look for park-and-ride options where you can leave your car further out and finish the journey by public transport. Car parks on the fringe of the city are often much cheaper than central ones and a bit of extra walking can save a surprising amount each week.
Share the ride
If you know someone heading in the same direction, sharing the drive is one of the easiest ways to cut costs. Carpooling reduces fuel and parking expenses, and apps now make it simple to match with others. Even a couple of shared trips a week can lighten the load on your wallet.
Make the most of public transport
Public transport in Perth can be much cheaper than running a car, especially if you’re making the most of the discounts available. Seniors, students and other concession holders receive reduced fares, and SmartRider users also travel free on Sundays. It’s worth checking the Transperth website to see which discounts apply to you.
Walk, cycle and move for free
Walking and cycling don’t just save money – they’re a great way to sneak in extra exercise. If work is too far, consider cycling part of the way and catching the train or bus for the rest. Short local trips, like popping down to the shops or school drop-off, are perfect to do on foot and can save litres of fuel over a year.
Work from home when you can
If working from home is an option, even one or two days a week makes a big difference to your fuel bill. You’ll also save on parking and public transport, not to mention the bonus of a gentler morning start.
Keep an eye out for travel hacks
Technology can save you money too. Navigation apps show the quickest routes and warn you of traffic snarls that would otherwise leave your car idling and burning fuel. Fuel apps help you track down the cheapest petrol nearby, and some supermarkets offer fuel discounts with your grocery shop. A little forward planning goes a long way.
Rethink what ‘essential’ travel means
Sometimes the best way to save is to cut back on the trips altogether. Shopping locally, ordering in bulk, or combining errands into a single trip all reduce the need to be constantly on the road. Ask yourself whether each drive is necessary – chances are, a few could be skipped.
