Don't Over-Accelerate Into Debt

By Whitney Walker

Places to go, people to see. Any teenager knows that on the weekends, you just can't sit at home. Everything's great, until you see the gas gauge in your vehicle: empty. You quickly look into your wallet, and there's only the money you have to go out on. This is a major financial issue facing most teens today: gas money.

From experience, I know it's not easy to put gas in the tank. The first thing you can do is withdraw some money, hit up the ATM, or when worst comes to worst, get help from your parents. While these ideas usually work, you will risk going into a financial blunder if you are not careful. There are alternatives, however, that can help you from going into debt over such a simple thing as gas.

*Carpool- Hey did you ever think about helping the environment? Take turns carpooling with your friends. It will help your gas money, theirs, and the environment. What a great way to save on everyone's behalf!

*Other modes of transportation- Does your community have a city bus? It's there for a reason. Taking the city bus can be a great opportunity to meet new people, and to see the different areas of town, a lot cheaper than spending the gas money it would take to ride in your car from one side of town to another. Walking or biking is also a great option. You can get exercise, help yourself, and your finances.

*Stay at home a little more- most teens won't admit it, but it's a good idea to stay home sometimes rather than go out on the town. Your family will appreciate it, and you will too! Spending time with family is vital, because once college time hits, family time together is going to be reduced. Staying home also gives you a chance to catch up on homework, or even study for upcoming tests. Practicing this habit helps your grades, can allow for family activities, and even help you savings. What a great combo!

So, next time you get ready to leave, and the gas gauge looks close to empty, think about an alterative to you driving. Why risk going into debt over trying to find gas money? There are plenty of other options that can help you and your finances, while still having fun on the weekends.