No matter how early or late you are to driving, the thought of facing those astronomical costs is enough to make your stomach turn. The brutal reality is that your first year or two of driving will probably burn the deepest hole in your pocket. Thankfully, there are several steps that can help reduce the financial strain.
Embracing these tricks won’t suddenly remove the expense of driving. However, they will make those costs far more manageable. And when you’re not worried about the financial implications, you can spend more time enjoying life behind the wheel.
- Don’t let the costs of learning to drive spiral out of control. The internet is packed with resources like this practice test to help you prepare for the exams and practicals ahead. Perhaps most importantly, you must realize that this process requires dedication and commitment. Without it, it could double or even treble the overall costs of getting a license. Besides, nobody wants to be waiting years before they finally pass!
- Buy a used car rather than a new one. You may be tempted to purchase new, or lease one, but used cars are the better option for new drivers. They’re cheaper to buy, cheaper to insure, and encounter less depreciation. Your first vehicle will feel special regardless. Saving that new car purchase for later down the line will bring benefits now and in the future. Alternatively, you get offered the chance to share the family car, then take that opportunity with both hands.
- Think about your driving habits. It’s only natural to drive around for hours during the first week or two of driving. Once you’ve settled into this new lifestyle, though, saving money should be high on the agenda. Using Sat Navs to take the quickest route can save gas, as will driving in more appropriate fashions. Whether it’s reducing the unnecessary weight or conserving power doesn’t matter. Those seemingly small gestures will make a big impact.
- Drive down insurance costs by reducing the coverage. Every driver needs a package, but paying over the odds for services you don’t need is pointless. If your car is a modest one, or kept in a garage overnight, it probably won’t get stolen. If it only cost a few hundred dollars, it might be easier to replace it in the worst situations anyway. Whichever route you take, running an online price comparison should be considered essential.
- Keep the car in great health to reduce long-term damage and repair costs. Whether it’s sending it for regular MOTs or completing essential care doesn’t matter. Ensuring that the car avoids major damage will reduce the maintenance costs, and should aid its resale value too. Above all else, it will go a long way to maintaining your enjoyment on the road. If that doesn’t inspire you to take greater care behind the wheel, nothing will.
Utilize those tips to keep driving costs to a manageable level, and you’ll be left smiling for many years to come.
