Beat The Bowser

APPS | Find the cheapest petrol with an app. There can often be a considerable price difference across service stations in any given area. Apps such as RACQ Price Finder, MotorMouth, PetrolSpy, GasBuddy and FuelCheck take the hard yards out of petrol price comparison by sourcing the cheapest spot to fill up based on your location. The apps update in real time as well, ensuring you can keep up to date with fluctuating prices.

CARPOOL | Friends are great, especially if they’re doing the driving! If you live along the same route to school, work or uni, try and hitch a ride with your mates when possible. Splitting a tank of fuel between three or four people is much kinder on the wallet than filling up solo. And who doesn’t love a communal pit stop at the Macca’s drive-through?

REWARDS | A rewards card can help minimise fuel costs while earning reward points as you spend. Most major service stations now hold partnerships with various rewards programs and/or rewards credit cards. To earn points, all you need to do is swipe your rewards card when you purchase fuel – just make sure you remember to fill up at a service station partnered with the rewards program you hold a membership with. Keep in mind that a higher annual fee may apply to rewards cards.

MAINTENANCE | Staying up to date with car services and checking your tyres regularly can prevent mechanical problems from developing later down the track. Maintaining your car in top notch condition means it will run smoothly and consume less petrol (good news for your wallet as well as the environment!). Aim to get it serviced every 12months for optimum fuel efficiency.