Even though gas prices have gone down, the economy sure hasn’t made us feel any better about spending money. But, Farmers’ Almanac, the original sustainable living guide (who knew?, suggests some easy-to-follow tips that can cut your gas usage and save you a few dollars whether you’re headed on a family vacation or taking a routine car trip.

1. Avoid fast acceleration. Easy does it and a steady pace are best.
2. Obey speed limits. Driving too fast or too slow can waste gas.
3. Don’t warm up your car – just start it and go. The engine will warm up faster while driving.
4. Don’t leave a car on when running into a store, even for a short time. Idling wastes a quart of gas every 15 minutes.
5. Empty your trunk or truck bed. Every 200 pounds of unnecessary weight reduces mileage by one mile per gallon.
6. Keep your tires inflated to correct pressures.
7. Buy gasoline during the coolest times of the day – early morning or late evening. Gasoline is densest during these periods.
8. Use cruise control whenever possible. This will decrease gas use by 5 to 10 percent on long trips.
9. Walk or ride a bike when possible.
10. Maintain your car with regular service checkups. A well-serviced vehicle can stretch your gas mileage by 15 percent.
11. Walk or ride a bike when possible.
12. Maintain your car with regular service checkups. A well-serviced vehicle can stretch your gas mileage by 15 percent. 

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