Is Your Driving Style Costing You at the Pump? Smarter Habits That Save Gas

Could you be spending 30% more on gas than you need to? If your tank feels like it's running empty faster than it should, your driving habits might be the hidden culprit.

The way you handle your car can have a bigger impact on fuel efficiency than you might think — and the good news is, smarter habits can put money back in your pocket without buying a new car.

If you're looking to stretch your gas budget a little further, these are the habits that can help.

Ease Up on the Pedal

Fast accelerations and sudden braking don't just wear out your vehicle — they guzzle gas. Gradual starts and smooth stops can significantly improve your miles per gallon. Think of it like this: the less drama behind the wheel, the less fuel your car burns to recover from it.

Pro tip: Pretend there's a hot cup of coffee on your dashboard. Drive in a way that wouldn't spill it.

Watch Your Speed — Especially on the Highway

Once you hit 50 mph, your fuel efficiency starts to drop quickly. That's because air resistance increases — and your engine works harder to keep up. Driving at 65 instead of 75 might only add a few minutes to your trip but could save you a decent chunk of gas money over time.

Cruise control can help here, especially on longer drives, by keeping you at a steady and fuel-efficient pace.

Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder — and burn more fuel. It's a simple fix: check your tire pressure once a month and before long trips. Most gas stations have an air pump, and it only takes a few minutes to top things off.

Bonus: Properly inflated tires also last longer and improve your safety.

Limit Idling When You Can

Idling for more than a minute or two burns fuel needlessly. If you're waiting in a drive-thru or parked somewhere for a while, turning off the engine is often the better option. Modern engines are built to handle frequent starts — and you'll save more gas than you think.

Lighten the Load

Carrying extra weight — especially in the trunk or on the roof — can decrease fuel economy. If you've got heavy gear or rarely used items riding around with you, take a few minutes to clear them out. The lighter your car, the easier it is on your gas tank.

Plan Ahead and Combine Trips

Cold starts use more fuel than warm ones, so stringing errands together into one trip instead of several shorter ones can improve efficiency. Plus, planning your route to avoid backtracking or high-traffic areas can save both time and fuel.

The Bottom Line

You don't need to drive less to spend less on gas — just drive smarter. Slowing down, maintaining your car, and making a few conscious choices each time you hit the road can add up to real savings.

And if you've recently changed your driving habits — or started driving less overall — it might be a good time to revisit your insurance. A quick quote check could reveal some unexpected savings based on your lower mileage or safer style behind the wheel.