Gas prices may be down, but the sting of inflation and rising car costs still hits hard. As of late June 2025, the national average for regular gas sits at $3.226 per gallon, a welcome drop from $3.468 a year ago. Yet, with tariffs jacking up car prices and insurance costs climbing, every penny saved at the pump matters.
According to Kiplinger, this story dives into the current state of gas prices amid Middle East tensions and offers seven actionable tips to cut fuel costs while inflation and ownership expenses continue to squeeze American drivers.
Let’s start with the good news: gas prices have fallen significantly since their 2022 peak above $5 per gallon. That’s a relief for anyone who remembers wincing at the pump just a few years ago.
Despite this decline, the broader economic picture isn’t rosy. Inflation keeps pushing the cost of living higher, making even lower fuel prices feel like a small victory.
Car ownership itself is getting pricier. Tariffs are driving up vehicle costs, and insurance premiums are following suit, leaving drivers searching for ways to offset the burden.
That’s where smart fuel-saving strategies come in. You don’t need government handouts or complex schemes—just practical habits to stretch every gallon further.
First, "lighten your load". The EPA notes that every 100 pounds of extra weight cuts fuel mileage by 1%, costing about $0.03 per gallon based on their baseline figures.
Second, rethink rooftop storage. Using a large, blunt cargo box can save up to 25% on fuel during highway driving, translating to $0.06 to $0.53 per gallon, per EPA data.
Third, combine trips to avoid cold starts. Non-electric cars burn more fuel with a cold engine, so fewer starts mean more savings.
Fourth, don’t idle longer than 10 seconds. Idling wastes fuel after just 7-10 seconds, and newer gas cars or hybrids often have auto shut-off features to help. Fifth, slow down for efficiency. Lower speeds cut fuel use by reducing aerodynamic drag, which spikes exponentially with speed.
Sixth, keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires drop mileage by 0.2% per pound below recommended pressure, and a 25% shortfall (like 40 psi to 30 psi) costs 2% in efficiency, plus faster tire wear.
Seventh, use tech to your advantage. Apps like Gas Buddy or Gas Guru help locate the cheapest, quality fuel nearby, while membership clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club offer discounted gas that can offset membership fees.
Don’t overlook tire maintenance either. A $5 to $15 tire gauge, checked monthly, beats waiting for a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (mandatory since 2007) to warn you, often not until pressure drops over 25%.
Saving at the pump isn’t just about frugality; it’s about building wealth one smart choice at a time. In an economy where inflation and policy distortions—like tariffs—keep costs high, taking control of your fuel budget is a small but real win for financial liberty. So, lighten up, slow down, and drive smarter—your wallet will thank you.