Before you fill up, download
Internet can help ease sting of rising gas prices
By Erica Hill
CNN Headline News
(CNN) -- With gas prices soaring, I almost forget I'm not in California anymore. This morning I filled up my car and was shocked at the total. I don't drive a gas-guzzler; it's not a hybrid or electric vehicle, either, but I never would have thought a sedan would cost so much.
When we moved to Atlanta, we toyed with the idea of a hybrid. We liked the idea but didn't love the available cars; they didn't seem to have enough room for us and Mr. Jake, our dog. Now, I can't wait to get one.
For us, the real incentive of having a hybrid is an environmental one: We'd like to cut down on our pollution contributions, which is one reason we haven't bought a second car yet, despite living in a very car-based area, without much convenient public transportation.
The good news? Many a hybrid is on the horizon. The hybrid SUVs and trucks still use a fair amount of gas, but it's nothing compared to traditional models. I'm hoping there will be a hybrid station wagon by the time I'm ready for my next vehicle.
Until then, I've started walking more. I live in an area where I can walk, and the weather is beautiful these days, so it seems a shame not to. However, not everyone can cut back on their daily commute or walk instead of drive to the store. If that's the case for you, say hello to my little friend the Internet.
A simple Web search may save you 10 cents a gallon. There are a ton of sites that offer information on the least expensive gallon in your area -- from Gas Price Watch to Gas Buddy to local sites, even tutorials on how gas prices are set. How Stuff Works is a great resource to learn about the nickel and dime increases.
The Internet may not be able to keep you out of the car, but it may help keep you out of gas debt. As you go online to map out the summer vacation and book lodging, don't forget to use cyberspace to check out the gas prices -- it could mean one more ice cream cone along the way.
