Gas prices around $4.30 per gallon are heading above $5. Budget for the worst case by calculating what you'll spend on fuel, then cut from other categories or change habits: carpool, combine trips, work from home.
Chapters
Gas right now is at $4.30 a gallon as a national average, and it's predicted to spike even over $5 a gallon. Now here's the thing, with the money habit, we prepare for the worst case. So start allocating your money for $5 a gallon based upon how many gallons you're using at a given time. Now this will force a conscious consideration. You may have to pull money from elsewhere, you surely will. And are you willing to do that? If not, you have to reconsider how you utilize gas. Can you carpool? Can you consolidate your travel so you travel less frequently? Can you work remotely? Start adjusting your dollar amount. Think consciously about what's going on, and your behavior will change.