Easy, Green Ways to Save Gas This Thanksgiving

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Fueling the family car this Thanksgiving holiday promises to be costlier than ever before. Making matters worse, it comes at a time when much of the economy is beset with uncertainty. With millions of people headed for Grandma's...or to the mall on shopping errands...gas mileage and gas dollars (not to mention carbon emissions) can add up fast.

This makes Thanksgiving an ideal time to try out a few perfectly painless green tricks to help save some dough...as well as go a little green. After all, the spirit of Thanksgiving is partly about community and stewardship.

• 1. Combine holiday errands and grocery shopping trips.

  Make a shopping list to save you from costly last-minute runs for that forgotten cranberry sauce. The fewer times you have to get in your car, the more gas you'll save, both from starting up and from actual miles driven.

• 2. Shop with a neighbor and split the gas.

  One car; half the gas price. Plus, errands are more fun when you have someone else along to talk to. You can also share coupons, scout for deals and trade recipes and advice.

• 3. Take the train to Grandma's.

  It's the greenest way to go, reducing your carbon footprint by two thirds.

• 4. Keep your tires properly inflated.

  Boost mileage up to 5%. There's a 1% loss of fuel efficiency for every 2 PSI under maximum pressure (usually in the 35-psi range).

• 5. Drive 55 MPH

  It's true; going too fast burns more gas. At 65 mph you’re burning 10% more fuel than at 55, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.

• 6. Shop online on Black Friday -- forget the mall.

  Let your fingers do the shopping in the comfort of your home. You'll save on emissions as well as hassle.

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