If you’ve been to the pump recently, you’re starting to see how expensive driving is becoming. The national average for gas is over $4 per gallon, according to AAA, with California drivers paying nearly $6 per gallon.
Unless oil production stabilizes, these prices will stay the same. The good news is that while you can’t control prices, you might be able to lower fuel costs in other ways.
One smart option is to consider alternative transportation for short-distance trips. These options can make your commutes more enjoyable while helping you avoid paying more of your hard-earned money on rising gas prices.
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Riding the Electric Wave: The Scooter Revolution
(Image credit: Getty Images)
I’ve used electric scooters often: From cruising past the White House to enjoying the mild ocean breeze in Santa Monica. They’re a fun way to travel, but I usually don’t recommend them.
Why? The ones you rent with companies like Lime require you to stand in the same position, which can be challenging on rougher roads and painful for longer commutes, especially if you have joint pain. And if you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to miss a small divot in the sidewalk that could send you flying.
One smart alternative I found is a sitting scooter, like the Gyroor C1Plus Electric Scooter.These handle rougher roads with ease, provide a comfortable seat for short-term commutes and have storage baskets for when you go shopping or want to bring your four-legged companion along for the trip.
Golf Cart Commuting: A Casual and Cost-Effective Cruise
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Another way to avoid fuel costs is to bring the convenience and fun of driving a golf cart to your smaller commutes. In some communities, this is the preferred means of traveling because it’s quick, quiet and allows you to access your community’s resources without the traffic congestion.
If you’re considering an electric golf cart for your daily commutes, the selection process can be more involved than simply picking a color or size.
Here’s a checklist to help you find your fit:
- Battery: Find one with lithium-ion batteries because they have a longer lifespan, provide more consistent power and charge faster.
- Range: How far do you plan to travel? Most electric carts have a range between 25 and 40 miles. If your travel is minimal, a standard range is fine, but for longer community travel, ensure the stated range comfortably exceeds your average daily mileage
- Speed: For your cart to be street legal, it must be a low-speed vehicle, meaning it travels between 20 and 25 mph.
- Storage: Commuting often involves carrying items. Look for carts with built-in storage compartments, under-seat storage, or the option to add a rear cargo bed or basket
- LSV Requirements: Carts intended for street use must include headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts for all seating positions, a side-view mirror and a windshield
- Tires: DOT-rated street tires for better traction and durability on pavement.
- Insurance: If you’re driving on public roads, it’s wise to have insurance for your cart. Liability insurance is inexpensive, costing between $75 to $400 annually, yet it offers financial protection if an accident happens.
Using high fuel prices as an excuse to exercise
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Another way to avoid higher gas costs is to get physical. If you live in a walkable community, taking a stroll to the pub with friends is a great way to exercise, socialize and save money on fuel costs.
If walking isn’t practical, consider biking. Biking is extremely beneficial in that it’s a low-impact exercise that can improve your strength and coordination. It’s also a great way to relieve stress and combat depression.
Furthermore, many communities have public transportation options. Whether it’s light rail, bus or community options — some small towns offer rideshare services where they’ll pick you up and drop you off locally, all of these come with lower costs than a tank of gas.
And don’t forget electronic bikes. While they won’t offer the exercise benefits of regular cycling, it’s a fun and safe way to get around town.
How much can I save by doing these alternatives?
Here’s a breakdown of how much it costs per mile to do some of these alternatives, compared to using a gas-powered car:
|
Transportation Method |
Estimated Initial Cost |
Estimated Cost Per Mile |
Notes: |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Gas-Powered Car |
$25,000 – $45,000+ (New) |
$0.60 – $0.75 |
Includes gas, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation (National average, varies by vehicle) |
|
Electric Scooter |
$300 – $1,500 |
$0.01 – $0.05 |
Primarily, electricity cost; rental costs are significantly higher (e.g., $0.15 – $0.30 per minute) |
|
Bicycle (Standard) |
$150 – $1,000+ |
$0.00 – $0.02 |
Primarily maintenance costs (tires, occasional parts) and the initial purchase |
|
Electric Golf Cart (LSV) |
$8,000 – $15,000+ |
$0.03 – $0.10 |
Includes electricity, battery replacement/maintenance, and depreciation |
|
Light Rail/Bus (Public Transit) |
N/A (Cost is typically per ride/pass) |
$0.15 – $0.50 |
Varies based on fare structure (flat rate vs. distance) and frequency of use |
|
Walking |
$50 – $150 (For quality shoes) |
$0.00 |
Free, not including the initial cost of comfortable shoes |
As you can see, the more you use alternative methods, the more you’ll save over time. Shaving even 1,000 miles off your car each year and biking instead can save you up to $750 annually. Over time, this also helps reduce wear and tear on your car, making it last longer.
Ultimately, start by evaluating your needs and the local infrastructure. Examine sidewalk quality, LSV ordinances and whether your city has bike lanes. From there, you can find the perfect, fuel-free alternative that keeps your stress levels and your wallet in check.