I’m always on the market for cool driving tips. I’m on the road a lot, and am always looking for ways to make my drives cheaper, easier, and more fun.

I’ve found a number of great resources, but there are two that have been particularly helpful and enlightening for me.

“10 Ways to rediscover the joy of motoring” (here)

It’s funny how the little things about driving can change the experience. This article, written for the BBC by driving expert (does that mean he’s a good driver, or he knows a lot about good driving?) Tom Vanderbilt, talks about how to avoid the little things that ruin a drive. Things like not getting angry at the sound of a horn, not changing lanes when you don’t need to, and not tailgating because it’s bad for everyone are excellent ways to make a Sunday drive a Sunday drive again. Check out the comments, too- lots of interesting stuff here.

“Cost to Drive” (here)

Gas is expensive. I know, crazy! Wondering if you can afford it? Want to know what to charge the ride-alongs? Cost to Drive can do just that. Tell it where you’re going and what car you’re driving, and it figures out what it’ll cost you. Numbers are based on average gas price along your route, your car’s gas mileage, and the fuel type you use. For instance: to go from Charlottesville, VA (school) to New York, NY (home) in my 1997 Saturn SL1 (because I’m a baller like that) costs $33.31. I’m headed home with a friend, so they’re paying half of that. Very helpful to track your costs, whether you need to report them to someone or charge someone for them.

Driving doesn’t have to be unpleasant, but for many people it is. Using these two sites, as well as more that I’ll pass along later, can inject your drive with some of that “fun” thing.

Now, speaking of which, time for me to spend that $33.31. See ya!

What makes your drives more fun? Let us know in the comments!