Avoid Crowds, Save Time. Save Time, Save Money.

I hate crowds.  I'm not a people person and I hate waiting in line.  I feel as though my time is not being maximized and if I know there is a place with long lines, I avoid it like the plague.  Here are TEN tips that have gotten me living in the fastest lane at all times.

Kids showing off what they like at the San Diego Zoo.

1. Do the opposite of what everyone else is doing.
• If it is NFL season, just know when people are watching football.
• Nice sunny day?  Everyone is probably headed to the beach.  Wait for an overcast day and dress appropriately.  Ample free parking and plenty of room to spread out and plenty of seashells to pickup.
2. Get a car where the gas door is on the passenger side.  Usually that side of the pump is clear so you never have to worry about lines at the pump.
3. Shop online.  This is obvious, but after a while it is nice to get some sunshine and walk around.
4. Drive in the slow lane when the freeway is jammed.  It moves at a steady pace because everyone is usually trying to move into the passing lanes.
5. Do your chores early.  Go grocery store shopping and get your gasoline early in the morning right before the rush.
6. If you go to the movie theatre, watch movies that have been out a week or two.  You get really good seating that way.
7. Avoid eating out.  Bring food and picnic at a place of your choosing.  It is more relaxing and stress-free.
8. If eating out, eat a late lunch 2-3 p.m. or early dinner between 4-5 p.m.  People tend to not eat between these times and table service is much better.
9. Barbershops are empty on Friday nights on a military base.  Everyone usually waits until Sunday afternoon-evening.
10. Before traveling anywhere, check Google Maps prior to leaving your house to see the latest traffic conditions and avoid accidents on your route.  This is where five minutes can save you hours of headache!

At the Pier