Commuters using the London Underground transport system. (Image credit: Getty Images)

Whether it’s the daily commute to work or visiting family and friends, travel can easily be a big factor in your household bills.

In fact, a December 2022 release from the Office for National Statistics showed that transportation inflation was 6.9%.

With inflation still high and the cost of living a major concern for many, it’s important to stay on top of finances and identify any cost-cutting measures that could help.

Fortunately, the savings experts at Waardebonnen.nl have listed a number of tips for you to save money on your trip.

Here’s what you need to know.

Try to travel outside rush hours as much as possible

If you come by train, it is always cheaper outside rush hour.

These are usually after 9.30 pm, before 4 pm and after 7 pm. This is especially useful if your company offers flexible services, as you can reduce the cost of commuting.

If you’re 16-25, 25-30 or over 60, a rail card for £30 a year could also prove to be a smart investment, saving you a third off most fares.

If you travel outside rush hours, you can save money on train fares. (Photo: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

Look for job benefits

If your workplace offers you work benefits, check what they are and whether they apply to travel.

Anita Naik, savings expert at VoucherCodes.co.uk, says: “Some companies offer travel benefits for staff and you can often save a lot by taking advantage of these schemes.”

“Shared benefits are cycling programs, which allow you to buy a new bicycle at a discount and avoid gas costs, and subscription loans, which allow you to spread the cost of a subscription.”

“While each schedule works a little differently, it’s worth taking a look at your work performance and see if it can help you save.”

Compare petrol prices

Every motorist knows that petrol prices can take a toll on any traveller’s bank account, so it’s up to you to find out which gas stations offer the best value for money.

Supermarkets usually offer the lowest prices. However, Anita also recommends PetrolPrice.com’s free sign-up service to see the latest gasoline prices in your area.

Shell reported profits of about $9.5 billion for July through September, almost doubling from the same period last year. Calls for a windfall tax are mounting as oil companies benefit from high energy prices brought about by the war in Ukraine.

If you shop around you can save a lot of money on fuel. (Photo: EPA/Andy Rain)

Take the bus whenever possible

If you are not a regular bus commuter it may be worth checking if you can use public transport for your trip. From 1 January 2023, fair fares on around 4,600 bus routes across the country will be reduced to just £2, meaning the cost of some journeys will be cut by up to 80%.

Although the scheme expires in three months, traveling by bus is still one of the cheapest options.

change car insurance

If it’s been a while since you’ve compared car insurance prices, use this as a reminder to do so.

Price comparison sites such as MoneySuperMarket and CompareTheMarket.com can help motorists determine if they are overpaying for their car insurance, and you can save up to £330 a year just by shopping around.

Many providers also give a discount if you pay off your car insurance annually instead of monthly.

Look for discounts on car maintenance

While automatic maintenance isn’t an area that typically lends itself to coupons, it does exist. Anita says sites like VoucherCodes.co.uk can help you save on MOT bookings, tyres, car parts and more.