How to Avoid Traffic and Save a Buck

Traffic is a costly and frustrating mess that leaves you tired and angry once you finally arrive at your destination. Unfortunately, the long waits and idling engines caused by traffic also result in lost money. If you are looking to avoid traffic and save a buck while you're at it, follow these steps to save some time and money wherever you're going.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Carpool with friends and colleagues. Carpoolers avoid traffic and add a little bit of social fun to an otherwise boring commute. Most freeways have a carpool lane that lets carpoolers bypass the gridlock of cars. By sharing gas costs and not putting daily wear and tear on your own car, you will avoid traffic and save some money.
2. Bike or walk to where you're going. If you're commuting to work on a daily basis, biking or walking are especially good ways to avoid traffic and save some money. If your destination is within cycling distance, you will save money on gas and also on fees you would otherwise pay for a gym membership to stay in shape. Walking, while slower, has the same benefits as biking, so if you can get to your destination on time by bike or foot, then leave the car keys at home.
3. Use public transportation. Buses, trains and subways let you skip the traffic gridlock and save the cost and hassle of parking. Most public transportation systems offer discounts for regular users. Also, since you're not driving, you can take the time to catch up on some work or reading while you're on your way.
4. Take alternate routes. A little bit of planning and a road atlas can help you find ways to your destination that bypass the clogged and car cluttered highways and main roads. Even though larger roads travel faster, the starting and stopping caused by traffic slows you down significantly and destroys your fuel efficiency. Save some money and avoid traffic by finding smaller, less-trafficked roads.