It’s no secret that gas prices are rising across the land. If your wallet is taking a hit at the gas pump, you may be wondering how you’re going to stick to a budget this summer. Gas prices have risen dramatically in the months leading up to summer and it doesn’t look like it will end anytime soon.  As of June 4, 2008 the average price for a gallon of gas nationally was $3.98. This marks an increase of $0.82 from a year ago or an astounding 21%! Estimates show that the prices are only going to rise, so anything you can do increase your car’s fuel efficiency will help you save.

The following tips will help you reduce your gas usage and make the most out of the gas that you do buy so that you can save money for the more important Summer pursuits.

1. Reduce your fuel grade. If your car has been feasting on mid-grade to premium grade gas, it’s time to go back to regular if you can. There are some cars that do need premium grade gas because of their high-compression engines, but most can get by fine without it. Check your user’s manual and do some research on your make and model of car. You may be surprised to find out that you can downgrade to a cheaper gas.

2. Drive conservatively - This has nothing to do with your political views and everything to do with the way that you use your car. If you’re used to making long trips several times per week, or even a series of short trips during the day, it’s time to go on a driving diet. Compile all of your errands into one driving trip. If you frequently visit a metropolitan area a few times per week, make just one trip. Try to look for opportunities to car pool or even walk. Reduce your reliance on your car and you’ll save money on gas.

3. Obey the speed limit - If you’re the resident speed demon among your circle of friends, you’re probably the one that spends the most on gas. After 60 mph, your fuel efficiency takes a nose dive. Although it can be impractical to drive that speed on some major freeways, try to keep it as close to 60 as possible. You won’t arrive as fast as you used to, but you’ll also be saving yourself at least 20 cents per gallon of gas.

4. Eliminate your lead-foot tendencies - Speed isn’t the only problem when it comes to your driving habits effecting your fuel efficiency. You can increase your fuel usage when you bear down on the gas pedal to quickly accelerate. Quick starts and stops can cause wear and tear to your engine, which means it’s using fuel less efficiently. Re-train yourself to use light pressure on your accelerator and brake slowly.

5. Keep your tires pumped up - Flat tires can mean more money spent on gas. Low pressure in your tires means that they are more resistant to the road. This can reduce your fuel efficiency by at least 3 percent. Get a PSI checker and make it a habit of checking your tire pressure once a week. Fill them up when needed and you’ll save money on gas.

It’s going to take a little planning and forethought to reduce your gas costs. But it can be done! The steps you take to improve your fuel efficiency will pay off when you are spending less on gas each month.  Even if you only implement one of these ideas, your budget will thank you!