It’s no secret life is getting more expensive. Thanks to inflation, everything costs more, even gas. Chances are, you’ve noticed gas prices continuing to rise. Depending on where you live, you might be paying almost $7 a gallon.
While some believe gas prices will eventually go down, it’s still a good idea to cut back when you can. One way to do that is by taking advantage of online services. From grocery shopping to doctor appointments, here are five errands you can skip to save gas money:
1. Obtaining Birth Control
Did you know you can save time and money on gas by having your birth control delivered to your door? Yes, really! Ordering birth control online has grown in popularity in recent years. One reason is that it’s convenient. Instead of visiting a doctor in person and then waiting to fill your prescription, you can do everything online with telehealth providers like Nurx.
To get started, you’ll need to fill out a form answering some basic health questions. A licensed provider will review your needs and, if appropriate, write a prescription. Companies that offer this service also have their own medical teams available to answer your questions. This means you won’t have to leave your house or spend time trying to find the right doctor.
You’ll generally pay less for your prescription if you have insurance. However, most online birth control providers also offer options for those without insurance as well as free delivery.
2. Getting Groceries
Not only can you shop for groceries online, but you can also have them delivered directly to you. Thanks to companies like Instacart and DoorDash, you don’t have to waste gas money on a grocery run. Just shop for your goods, pay, and wait for your items to arrive — all from the comfort of your home.
It’s worth mentioning that shopping online for groceries has other benefits. For example, there’s a good chance you’ll spend less money than if you were shopping in person. Why? If you’re not physically in the store, you won’t be influenced by the smells and well-placed marketing displays. Online grocery shopping is also a good option for those who feel stressed in physical stores, especially when they’re busy.
It’s important to note that most grocery delivery services charge additional fees, like a delivery fee. However, that fee might be worth it when compared to how much you’d spend on gas.
3. Going to the Gym
You don’t have to leave your home to get good exercise. Thanks to social media and fitness apps, there are more ways to work out virtually than ever before. For example, apps like Alo Moves, Openfit, and Strava provide users with hundreds of exercise videos led by qualified trainers.
While some classes require equipment such as weights or exercise bands, you can easily find classes with bodyweight-only workouts. Not to mention, with so many apps available, you’re able to pick the one that best fits your exercise interests. For instance, if you enjoy yoga, you might choose a platform that only offers yoga classes.
Need help staying accountable while working out at home? Other apps, like MyFitnessPal, will help you track your nutrition, exercise, and weight. Most have a community feature where you can connect with other users for inspiration, advice, and accountability.
4. Monitoring Your Sexual Health
Sexually transmitted infections are very common. However, these diseases remain somewhat taboo, partly because people are under the misconception that STIs are rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, though, one in five people have some type of STI.
Many people with STIs don’t experience symptoms, making it easy to pass from one person to the next. Because of this, it’s crucial you take the time to get tested. Luckily, you can do this in the privacy of your own home without spending money on gas.
These days, many companies offer at-home STI testing. With this, you’re sent a kit that comes with everything you need to take your sample. Once you’re done, you simply send the sample to the designated address and await your results.
5. Scoring Some New Threads
It’s summer, which means you probably need to upgrade your wardrobe with short-sleeve shirts and shorts. If only there was a way to do that without having to drive and spend money on gas. Well, good news — there is! Thanks to clothing-delivery services, you don’t have to leave your home to buy new clothes.
Stitch Fix, a popular online personal styling service, sends items to your front door. When you sign up for a membership, you’re connected with a personal stylist. They use your interests, sizing measurements, and their own expertise to send you the perfect outfits. Fabletics is a simpler styling service that focuses on workout or leisure clothes.
If you don’t want to sign up for a membership, take advantage of online clothing sites. These days, many popular stores offer their products online so you can shop and opt for delivery. Keep in mind, though, that delivery fees vary and may end up being quite expensive. However, some clothing sites offer free delivery or will waive the delivery fee if you spend a certain amount.
According to 2022 research, the average household in the United States spends about $5,000 on gas each year. Chances are, that number is only increasing as gas prices rise. Don’t waste gas if you don’t have to! Instead, opt to have the services above delivered directly to your front door.
