What's Next? Gas Prices

Over the next year, with gas prices becoming excessive, it is a wonder how any of us will be able to afford the commute to work let alone travel for fun. It has become necessary to evaluate where you are going and if you can visit other establishments during the same trip. Follow these top five easy strategies to save on gas, spend less money, and still go on that long awaited road trip!

1) First and foremost, slow down! Speeds over 60 mph increases the amount of gas your car uses. When you drive over 60 mph, each of those 5 mph converts to paying approximately 20 cents extra for each gallon of gas. If you drive 75 mph, that is like paying and extra 60 cents PER GALLON of gas raising the price from say $3.89 to $4.49! Not only does slowing down decrease the amount of gas you are using, but it will make the roads a safer place.

2) Another easy fix to getting more bang for your buck is avoid those sudden starts and stops. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can lower gas mileage by 33% highway driving and 5% around town just by being easy on the pedals. Racing off the start line and slamming on the breaks lowers the gas mileage of any car. Gentle driving will save you money!

3) Lighten up those wheels, as a lighter car will save you gas. Don't use your car as a storage unit. Keep those heavy items at home as every 100 lbs of extra weight will increase the gas your car consumes by 1 to 2%!

4) Turn your car off rather than allowing it to idle to save huge on gas consumption. You are simply wasting gas if you are not moving; if you have to wait a minute or two, even in traffic, you will use less gas by turning off the car rather than idling.

5) Last, but certainly not least, keep your car running efficiently by regular maintenance and tune-ups. Get oil changes using the oil and schedule that is recommended in your owner's manual; this can improve the fuel efficiency of your car. Replace those dirty air filters and increase your gas mileage by a shocking 10%. Keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure, according to your owner's manual. This will not only improve your gas mileage, but the tires will last longer. Change any worn spark plugs and keep all fluids above the lowest recommended level. A good maintenance plan will save you gas and save your car!

Just by changing a few bad habits, you can dramatically save on the amount of gas your car consumes. Keep these top five tips in mind and save money this year. To find cheap gas rates in your area check out www.gasbuddy.com or www.gaspricewatch.com. For more tips and information, visit the U.S. Department of Energy at www.doe.gov and the Environmental Protection Agency at www.epa.gov.