5 Ways to Save on Gas for Road Trips

Before you hit the road for your next summer getaway, check out these simple, budget-friendly tips.

Don't let high gas prices keep you home. "Driving is still the cheapest way for families to travel," says Justin McNaull of AAA. "If you take an 800-mile trip in an SUV that gets just 20 miles to the gallon, and you fill up for $2.50 per gallon, you're still spending only $100 on gas."

Before you hit the road:


• Get your car in shape. Have the engine tuned, replace the air filter, make sure the tires are properly inflated, and use the correct grade of motor oil (check your manual) to improve gas mileage up to 19%.



• Go to a price-monitoring site (we like gasbuddy.com) to find the cheapest places to fill up.



• Pack light. Every 100 pounds in the trunk decreases fuel economy by 1% to 2%; a loaded roof rack can drag it down as much as 5%.



• Don't pump premium. Despite its name, this gas won't result in better mileage or performance unless your manual says your car needs it -- only 10% do, says McNaull. Otherwise, it's a waste of money.



• Get a gas rebate credit card, such as those from Sunoco or Speedway, which offer 4% back on every dollar spent on gas and other purchases.