How to Cut Your Fuel Costs

Updated 22 September 2025

We’re all looking for ways to save money, and reducing fuel costs is one of the simplest places to start. Whether you’re commuting daily or driving occasionally, smarter driving habits and a well-maintained car can make a big difference. With just a few small changes, UK drivers could save up to £300 a year on fuel.

Optimise Your Car for Fuel Efficiency

Check Tyre Pressure Regularly
Incorrect tyre pressure makes your engine work harder and increases fuel use. According to the RAC, properly inflated tyres can improve efficiency by up to 2%. You’ll find the recommended levels in your car’s manual or on a label inside the driver’s door frame. Check every couple of weeks and always before long journeys for maximum savings.

Reduce Extra Weight
The heavier your car, the more fuel it burns. Clear out unnecessary items from the boot, glove box and storage compartments to lighten the load and improve efficiency.

Remove Roof Racks and Boxes
Even when empty, roof racks and top boxes add drag and increase resistance on the road. Remove them when not in use to cut down on wasted fuel.

Avoid Carrying a Full Tank
Fuel itself is heavy. Keeping your tank half to three-quarters full, especially for local trips, can help reduce weight. Just make sure you plan ahead so you don’t run the risk of running out.

Adopt Fuel-Saving Driving Habits

Accelerate Smoothly
Rapid acceleration is one of the fastest ways to burn through fuel. Aim to accelerate gently, shifting to higher gears sooner and keeping engine revs low—ideally around 2000 rpm.

Use Cruise Control on Motorways
Cruise control can save fuel on long, flat stretches of motorway by keeping your speed steady. But avoid using it on hilly roads, where it can actually increase consumption.

Keep Moving When Possible
Frequent stops and starts drain your tank quickly. Anticipate traffic flow, maintain momentum where safe, and avoid unnecessary braking. Smooth, steady driving always pays off in efficiency.

Plan Journeys Wisely

Combine Short Trips
Engines are less efficient when cold, so combining errands into one longer journey saves fuel compared to several short runs.

Plan Your Route
Choose the most efficient route before setting off, using traffic apps where possible. Starting with your furthest destination helps the engine warm up quickly, making the rest of your journey more efficient.

Save Money While Helping the Environment

Fuel costs are rising, but cutting back doesn’t have to be complicated. With regular car checks, lighter loads, smarter driving techniques and better planning, you can enjoy meaningful savings over the year. These changes won’t just save you hundreds of pounds—they’ll also reduce your carbon footprint, making your journeys kinder to the environment.