Here are 10 ways to spend less on gas this summer as prices soar

Gas prices have smashed records in recent weeks as the world grapples with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and demand has soared as the economy reopens.

Natural Resources Canada data show that Tuesday’s average daily retail price of gas in the United States was $197.4 per Liter. This is an increase from its previous high of $146.1 at the beginning of the year.

The high prices have drivers grumbling, but there are a few ways to get better mileage and reduce your gas bills, says Teresa Di Felice, an assistant vice-president at the Canadian Automobile Association’s south central Ontario branch.

Before you even leave your home, save gas and get better mileage. Di Felice says that if you do your research on your route, and then use traffic newscasts and driving apps, you will be able to avoid accidents zones and slow-moving areas. This will help you save gas.

It is also possible to group your trips. “Sometimes we go out some place and then get home and are like, ‘Oh I meant to go to that place’ and you go out again,” Di Felice says. “Try and think about the trips that you need to take, so you can combine them and avoid rush hour.”

Di Felice states that vehicles that run well get better mileage. Di Felice recommends keeping your vehicle in top shape by making sure that the engine filters are clean, the brake fluids are full, and that your tires are properly inflated.

“It’s not good for your gas or your car, if you’re driving underinflated or even overinflated,” she says.

Di Felice advises drivers to check the guidance printed on your driver’s side car door for the best pressure.

She suggests that you set up a monthly alert on the phone or mark your calendar to monitor your tire pressure.

Cars burn more fuel when they stop and then go at high speed, or vice-versa.

Di Felice advises that drivers not slam the brakes or press the gas too hard after passing a sign or stoplight to conserve gas.

Maintaining a constant speed can boost savings because you’re avoiding fluctuations that hurt your fuel efficiency.

Turn to cruise control, when it’s safe, to help your mileage, says Di Felice, who notes maximum fuel efficiency is achieved for most cars between 80 and 90 kilometres an hour.

“People have this idea that they have to run their car before they start driving it in order for it to warm up because they think that’s better for the car,” says Di Felice.

“That may be true, if you’re driving a really, really old model… but you don’t really need to run a newer car for two or three minutes before you take off.”

You’re pretty safe to get moving within 15 to 30 seconds of starting your car, and not idling your vehicle will save you gas and help the environment, says Di Felice.

“Your air conditioner is a really big drain on your gas tank, especially if you’re choosing the automatic max function in your car,” says Di Felice.

She advises that drivers open their windows to allow air conditioning to work.

If you have roof racks or other storage devices on your car, consider taking them off your vehicle, when you don’t need them to transport goods. Di Felice says that these devices can be a drag on your car, and reduce your fuel efficiency.

While you often can’t avoid filling up on gas when your car is nearly on empty, it is worth watching prices when you have some leeway, says Di Felice. There are many websites that map gas stations and record their prices. These sites allow you to search for deals and news sites will alert you when prices rise or fall by a few pennies.

Gas stations, credit cards, and other loyalty programs often offer discounts on gasoline. Di Felice claims that CAA members get three cents per gallon at Shell stations. Esso, Husky’s and several other stations have incentive programs too.

These programs allow you to accumulate points every time you fill up. These points can then be used for other rewards.

Di Felice says, “Maybe you’re not saving directly at the pump, but maybe you’re saving a few dollars on a grocery bill or something else that you typically purchase.”

While most people are familiar with the best ways to reduce gas consumption and increase mileage, they can easily forget to implement it. Di Felice recommends that you integrate the advice into daily life.

“It’s just a matter of making it a habit.”