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Auto owners are looking for ways to trim their monthly gas expenses. Walking, biking, and carpooling are common recommendations. Some decide to trade in their gas guzzlers for a hybrid car. Taking public transportation is also an economical choice. Here are ten more ways frugal drivers can save money on gas.

Compare Gas Prices

Many drivers get into the habit of filling up at the nearest gas station on their way to work or home, without realizing that a nearby station charges lower prices. A 25-cent price difference between two gas stations may not seem significant, but a driver who pumps 30 gallons of gas a week will save $390 a year. Multiply that by two drivers in one household, and the savings rise to $780 a year.

Save Money with Regular Gasoline

The majority of cars run just as well on regular gasoline as they do on premium. Not only is regular gas less expensive, higher octane fuel causes the car to burn gas faster, depleting the tank more quickly. For these reasons, regular gas is usually a better value. Drivers should check the owner’s manual to see if regular gas is acceptable for their specific vehicle.

Apply for a Gas Credit Card

Many companies offer credit cards with rebates on gas purchases. The no-fee Discover Open Road card, for example, currently gives cardholders a 5% rebate on gas and auto maintenance charges. It makes sense to consider a gas card, however, only if the cardholder intends to pay off the outstanding balance each month. Finance charges will cancel the rebate advantage.

Increase MPG

Making short, random trips on a daily basis eats up a lot of gas. Instead of hopping in the car for each errand, consider driving less frequently by combining trips to places in the same geographical area. In addition to combining trips, plan on keeping errands brief. It takes more fuel to get a cold engine going than a warm one. Get back into the driver’s seat while the engine is warm to increase fuel efficiency and get more miles per gallon.

Get Better Gas Mileage

Aggressive driving tactics, including speeding, frequent braking, and rapid acceleration hastens gas consumption. Anticipate red traffic lights, keep a steady foot on the gas pedal, and drive conservatively for better gas mileage.

Save Money on Gas
While there’s an undeniable pleasure in browsing at stores, shoppers who are in search of a specific item may save time and money by calling ahead to check the store’s current inventory. A wasted trip is eliminated if the item is not available.

Lower Fuel Expenses

Instead of driving to the post office to buy stamps or mail a package, conduct business on the U.S. Postal Service website. A wide variety of stamp denominations are available online. In addition, postage for Express and Priority Mail packages can be calculated and purchased along with a shipping label. Arrange for a free carrier pickup and eliminate a trip to the post office.

Improve Fuel Economy

A car that is well maintained is more fuel efficient than one that’s not. Follow the vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule for tune ups, oil and lube jobs, and spark plug changes. Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure level, and rotate them regularly for proper balance and improved fuel economy.

Increase Fuel Efficiency

A full load takes its toll on fuel efficiency. Clutter is not only unsightly; it weighs down the vehicle and causes it to burn more gas. Make it a habit to clean out the car regularly to make a tank of gas last longer.

Following these gas-saving tips can help drivers save time at the pump and get more mileage out of their hard-earned cash.