Americans households, on average, drive 72 minutes per day and spend nearly $5,500 on auto-related expense every year, according to Bundle.com data. That adds up to being in our vehicles more than 290 hours every year. With the cost of gas continuing to rise across the nation, its time to drive smarter in the name of fuel economy.

You probably can’t do much about lowering the prices at the pump, but there are ways to cut your costs and fuel consumption that are both practical and easy. Here are 5 practical fuel economy tips to save you money everyday as you travel the road:

1. Tires play a big role in fuel economy. Much of the variation in your car’s fuel consumption has to do with type and condition of your tires. Rolling resistance and tire tread loss can greatly affect how much gas you use. For best results you should choose rib type tires like TireBuyer Nitto tires. Keep your tires inflated properly to maximize results.
2. Your vehicle’s health has a huge impact on your fuel economy. In order to save on gas you should always keep your engine tuned, which can increase your mpg an average of 4 percent. In addition, you should have your oil changed on a regular schedule and have the service center check and replace your air filters regularly.
3. Try to travel at a constant rate of speed when driving on the highway. Make a habit of leaving for your destination early so that you don’t have to drive fast. In addition, if you are on a multi-lane road, choose the lane that is less crowded and offers a smoother ride. This will help you avoid unnecessary slowing and braking as you drive. The key is to drive sensibly. Speeding and frequent braking wastes gas and can lower your mpg by as much as thirty-three percent.
4. Plan and Combine trips ahead of time in order to maximize your fuel and drive less. If you can avoid driving find another way to travel. For instance consider car pooling or riding your bicycle. Another great option is looking into public transportation.
5. Keeping your car temperature steady will decrease your fuel consumption, too. On hot days find a way to park in the shade so that your vehicle won’t be overly hot when you get in, forcing you to use your air conditioning on high. Also, It is best to leave your windows up so that wind resistance won’t cause you to use extra fuel.

In addition to all of these fuel saving tips you should always avoid idling your vehicle. Even this seemingly small activity can burn up a quarter to half of a gallon of gasoline every hour. If your car is parked just turn the engine off.

All of these tips can help you to reduce how much fuel your vehicle uses. So, go lightly on the accelerator, stay steady on your speed, drive the speed limit and coast into better fuel economy saving hundreds of dollars every year.