Fuel prices have hit their highest ever levels, it has emerged today. Petrol prices are now at 148.02p per litre, and diesel is at 151.57p per litre.
The RAC's fuel spokesperson, Simon Williams, has told BBC News that new records "could now be set on a daily basis in the coming weeks", as oil prices continue to increase. Oil now costs almost $100 a barrel, and retailers are only too keen to pass the cost on to consumers.
While the cost of living continues to increase, there are steps we can take to keep costs down. Nick Drewe, money saving expert at WeThrift, has shared five of his favourite tips for keeping fuel costs down.
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Use sat-navs properly
"Sat-navs are great devices for saving money because they will show you the quickest route to your destination", Drewe says. "They can also work in real time and help you avoid getting stuck in traffic jams."
Some models of sat-nav - as well as Google Maps - now also have an eco-friendly routing feature, to advise you on the most economical route to take.
Fill up at the supermarket
Supermarkets are generally cheaper than specialist fuel brands, according to Drewe, even though it often comes from the exact same refineries. "Shell or Esso... will usually add a range of special additives to their own fuels in order to improve efficiency and performance," he says, but if you're not fussed about those, fill your boots at the supermarket.
For extra efficiency, fill up when you're going there anyway, rather than making a special extra trip.
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Inflate your tyres to the right pressure
Drewe says: "If you have the incorrect tyre pressure, you'll be using more fuel to keep your car running smoothly. This is because of the added friction while driving that comes from a misshapen tyre.
"To know what the recommended tyre pressure is for your vehicle, first check your vehicle handbook. Sometimes the pressure could be printed either in the sill of the driver's door or on the inside of the fuel tank flap. "Your vehicle manufacturer may also suggest different tyre pressures for your front and rear tyres so it is always worth doing your research."
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Use cashback schemes and loyalty cards
These schemes won't save you much right away but over time it can make a difference. BP, Tesco, and Sainsbury's, just to name a few, all have loyalty schemes. You could also consider using a credit card that gives cashback - but remember to pay off in full each month, or you'll end up losing more than you save.
Drive smoothly
"One of the easiest ways to save on fuel is to drive in a smooth manner," Drewe says. "Be sure to accelerate smoothly and avoid hard breaks to limit your fuel consumption.
"Shifting gears from time to time can also help you to avoid throwing away your fuel. If you’re driving a new model, check if your vehicle has a gear-shift indicator, as this will inform you of the most economical and efficient point to change your gear."
Other tips include keeping your windows closed when possible, which and reducing use of any electronic devices. These require energy, which, ultimately, will come from your fuel tank.
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