By MADE 
Fuel costs are probably the biggest concern for Americans who love road tripping. Although gasoline costs in the country have decreased compared to last year, they are still a reason to worry. NerdWallet cites AAA data, stating that the average regular gas price was $3.115 per gallon as of October 8, 2025. This was lower than $3.180 a year ago.
Despite the drop, you may end up spending a big sum if planning a long-distance road trip. The good thing is that saving big on fuel is completely possible. All you need is a smart approach to route planning, driving habits, and vehicle management. A few strategic steps both before and during your journey can make your trip enjoyable and affordable.
In this article, we will share a few practical tips that will help you cut fuel costs and protect your vehicle for the miles ahead.
Choose Your Route Wisely
Planning your route can have a powerful impact on fuel usage during long-distance road trips. According to a ResearchGate study, many travelers rely on Google Maps to choose the route for their trip. Besides having a significant impact on traffic congestion, Google recommendations can help with fuel saving. Recently, the app has added a new option for drivers; the most fuel-efficient route.
You can also look for highways or main roads with fewer stops and less elevation change. This is a wise move because steady cruising burns less fuel than frequent braking or climbing hills. Likewise, avoid congested areas and rush hour, as this will help you minimize idling and unnecessary acceleration.
Technology offers more to road trip enthusiasts with a sustainable mindset. Some apps can even help locate cheaper fuel stations along your route, saving you money at the pump. Mapping such stops beforehand will keep you a step ahead and enable you to plan the stops along the way.
Stay on Top of Vehicle Maintenance
A well-maintained vehicle operates at peak efficiency and consumes less fuel. However, many owners skimp on it, considering the rising maintenance costs in the US. According to ConsumerAffairs, the average cost of vehicle maintenance and repair in 2025 stands at a hefty $900. Expect to spend more on complex requirements, such as engine replacement ($5,000-10,000).
A thorough check and maintenance job before a long road trip ensures safety, convenience, and cost savings on fuel. Regularly check and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure; under-inflated tires can reduce fuel economy by up to 3%. Also, change air filters and use the correct engine oil, as recommended by your car’s manufacturer.
A mechanic can help you address any issues with spark plugs, fuel injectors, or the gas cap seal. Taking care of these details before setting off will prevent performance loss and fuel wastage. Moreover, you don’t find yourself stressing about an unexpected breakdown in the middle of nowhere.
Drive Smoothly
How you drive hugely affects fuel consumption, particularly during long road trips. Not to mention, it ensures safety on the highways, where accidents are common. According to 40/29 News, a horrific multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 49 in Fayetteville led to many injuries. Victims can consult a Fayetteville car accident lawyer to hold the guilty drivers liable.
Keith Law Group notes that the contingency-fee model can help them do it without upfront spending on legal fees. This is a big advantage for money-savvy road trip enthusiasts. Staying safe should be a top priority, and so should saving on fuel. Driving smoothly is the best way to achieve both.
Avoid driving at high speeds, as most vehicles are most efficient between 50 and 80 km/h. Seasoned drivers recommend maintaining a steady speed and using cruise control on highways when conditions are safe. Also, accelerate gently instead of “putting the pedal to the metal”. Sharp acceleration and braking both waste fuel.
Avoid Idling
Idling wastes fuel unnecessarily, even if you do it for a few minutes. The Environmental Protection Agency highlights more reasons to avoid idling. Besides increasing your fuel expenditure, idling increases engine wear and causes air pollution. A few steps can keep you from idling during extended drives.
Avoiding high traffic routes is the first step as you will not have to stop your car time and again while traversing the highway. However, you cannot completely avoid this, even if you pick the least busy route. Turn off your engine if stopped for longer than a minute, such as at long traffic lights or railroad crossings.
Choosing the right vehicle is another way to steer clear of idling. Many modern cars offer stop-start technology for this very reason. It automatically cuts the engine when the vehicle isn’t moving.
FAQs
How to save fuel when stuck in traffic?
Being stuck in traffic does more than cause delays and frustration, as you may end up with bigger fuel bills. However, you can prevent it by avoiding excessive idling by turning off your engine at long stops. Try to anticipate traffic flow, maintain a safe distance, and brake gently to minimize fuel-wasting stops and starts. Planning ahead to avoid peak traffic times is a good idea.
Does AC use more fuel?
Yes, using air conditioning increases the fuel consumption of your car, typically by 8–10%. However, when driving at high speeds, it’s actually more fuel-efficient to use AC rather than drive with the windows down. You can minimize AC impact by cooling the car when starting your trip and then switching to lower settings or turning off the AC later.
What wastes the most gas in a car?
Factors like high speeds, idling, and frequent braking can waste gas in a car. Sometimes, unexpected factors such as carrying more load can be the reason for high usage. Poor maintenance and constant use of air-conditioning can also affect your fuel bill when traveling long distances.
Extended road trips mean high fuel bills depending on the distance you cover and the route you choose. However, savvy road trippers know the secrets of fuel savings and do not let the long bills keep them from exploring their bucket lists. Try these simple tips to make the most of your gas as you cruise across the busy highways.
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