Gas prices are soaring in Wisconsin as a result of the United States and Israel’s war with Iran, and they seem to go higher every day. The average price of regular gas in Dane County is $3.67 per gallon. That’s about in line with the state’s overall average, and up nearly 60 cents from a year ago, according to AAA.
Here are some tips on ways to save on gas in Madison.
🚌 Take the Bus
This might be a good time to check the Madison Metro Transit bus schedule and use public transportation to get where you’re going. Metro has a Bus Tracker app that will not only help you plan your trip, but tell you where your bus is in real time and when you need to be at your stop.
🚲 Ride Your Bike
Dane County has a network of over 100 miles of shared bike trails that can get you quickly and safely to every part of the city, and the warming temperatures make a bike ride a lot of fun as well as cost-effective.
Don’t own your own bike? Madison BCycle offers a bike-sharing service throughout the city. To celebrate its 15th anniversary, BCycle is offering a free one-month pass for all Dane County residents and workers through April 30.
📲 Download the GasBuddy App
The GasBuddy app is free and tracks gas prices in your area. Enter your address or route, and it will show you the current gas prices at stations along the way. It’s crowdsourced, and you can enter your receipts to earn points toward rewards, including discounts on gas. You can also play games to earn points.
⛽ Take Advantage of Free Rewards Programs
Stretch your gas dollar a little farther with special programs. Kwik Trip offers its Fleet Rewards Program for people who drive as part of their jobs. While Hy-Vee doesn’t have any gas stations in the Madison area, Perks+ members can gain rewards they can use on items in the store, and when they’re traveling to areas that have Hy-Vee Gas stations.
🚗 Maintain Your Car
AAA recommends keeping tires properly inflated, and making sure to drive the speed limit. As speeds exceed 50 mph on the highway, aerodynamic drag reduces fuel economy. Limiting air conditioner use helps save on gas. Use a windshield shade to lessen heat buildup inside the car, and remove bulky items — it takes more fuel to accelerate in a heavier car.
