Star-Gazette.com: Site Provides Stategies to Save Money

June 21 , 2006 -- New York state has put the kibosh on the gas tax, allowing drivers to save a few extra cents. Every little bit helps, so the phrase goes, right?

Two Minutes always has its readers' best interest in mind, that's why we thought the following tips from www.ShopLocal.com may prove to be helpful:

Use comparison shopping Web sites featuring buy online options and local store sales information side-by-side so you can get a complete picture of what's available at stores near your neighborhood and where you can save money by making your purchases online.

Sites that feature "buy online" and "local stores" options are www.froogle.com, www.local.com and www.shoplocal.com.

• Use retailer's Web sites to check your local circulars for current sales information.
• Use mapping programs available on most comparison shopping and retailer Web sites and www.mapquest.com to plan your route before you leave the house.
• Search gas pricing sites to find convenient affordable fuel options on your shopping route.
• Sites that feature gas prices across the nation are AAA's "Fuel Price Finder" found at www.aaa.com and Gas Buddy at www.gasbuddy.com.
• Always call ahead to make sure the item you need is in stock or check to see whether the retailer has a buy online and pick up in-store option.
• Slow down. Each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional 15 cents per gallon for gas.