Feeling Pinched at the Pump? Alternative Transportation Methods to Avoid Spending $$ on Gas

Giant gas pumps are even more intimidating. That tiny drop about to escape (above) is probably worth about $1.55, reaching $1.63 by tomorrow night, no doubt. Maybe that's a slight exaggeration, but with the unrelenting, ever-increasing gas prices, every drip counts. The cost of gas is major issue these days with nearly every person wanting to fill up less and save more. Avoid getting your undergarments in a bunch at the pump and follow these handy tips for saving some dough.

Look out below!

Take a quick moment and observe the two ugly devices attached at the end of your legs. These are called feet. I feel that some Americans have effectively relieved them of their duties. Granted, the good ole' heel & toe combination can only take you so far.  But for those of us living in more condensed, urban settings, our feet count as a wonderful transportation method. So the next time your destination is within walking distance, consider using the weird-looking things at the south pole of your body. Best of all: they're free!

Yabba-Dabba-Do It

A step above straight up feet-walking is the foot powered car, a la The Flintstones. Now, I know what you're saying: "Why revert back to a prehistoric transportation style?" Welllll, once again, there's no need to fill up here. And it becomes much easier to power when driving downhill (don't bother with the opposite). Desperate times call for desperate measures and that's exactly what this is. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, too.

A Good Idea For Shaw

An inventive way to combine savings and earnings, a rickshaw is the entrepreneur's approach to dodging the gas station. The bike portion allows for quicker travel times than feet will permit, and the cab section will let you pick up a few customers (most likely stranded and gas-less on the side of the road) along the way. Be sure to install your own ticker to keep up with the demand.

My Pretty Pony

As I began to write this section of my hub, I Googled the estimated yearly cost of owning and maintaining a horse. Annual spendings range anywhere from $4,500-$6,000, which is definitely more than what most folks spend on sweet, sweet gasoline. Ultimately, if you dislike the high price of gas, then a horse will not work in place of your car. And if you have enough cash for a pretty pony, then moola is most likely not a problem in your life and you are probably not reading this article. Neeiiigghhhh...

That's What Friends Are For

When all else fails (or if any of these suggestions don't work for you), then mooch off your friends.  Example: "Hey, bro, I gotta go get some groceries but my tank's on 'E.'  You think you could spot me a ride to the store?  I promise to pay you back later...double.  What's that?  You sold your car to buy a horse?"