🚗 Money-saving tips for your daily commute

Fuel-saving tips ⛽

• Drive smoothly: Avoid harsh acceleration and heavy braking to improve fuel efficiency.

• Watch your speed: According to the RAC, cars are typically most fuel efficient at 45-50mph.

• Use cruise control (if available): It helps improve fuel economy primarily on flat, consistent terrain, which is why it's most effective on motorways. Maintaining a steady speed is crucial for saving fuel.

• Avoid idling: Turn off your engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute. Not only will it save fuel, but it’ll be also better for the environment too.

Cut down on fuel costs 💳

• Use fuel comparison apps: Apps like PetrolPrices or Waze can help you find the cheapest fuel nearby.

• Fill up at supermarkets: They often have lower prices than motorway or branded fuel stations.

• Avoid premium fuels (unless required): Regular unleaded (E10) is suitable for most cars and is cheaper.

Maximise free and low-cost charging⚡

If you drive an EV, some supermarkets —such as Aldi, selected Asda locations, and Sainsbury’s—offer free charging, while others charge between 25p and 83p per kWh. Since pricing and availability can vary, it’s best to check with your local store for the most up-to-date information.

Reduce overall driving costs 💷

• Car share: Split fuel and parking costs by commuting with colleagues or neighbours. There are several apps like LiftShare available to help you connect with people heading in the same direction.

• Plan your route: Use navigation apps like Google or Waze to avoid traffic and reduce time spent idling in jams.

• Combine errands: Try to run errands on your way to or from work to cut down on extra trips.

Vehicle maintenance tips 🔧

• Check tyre pressure: underinflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency and wear out faster.

• Tyresafe recommends using the 20 pence method. Click here to check your tread depth.

• Get regular servicing: A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and uses less fuel.

Less is more:

• Declutter your car: Clear out the boot and only carry essentials like a breakdown kit. Every extra kilogram in your car makes the engine work harder, which increases fuel consumption. Roof boxes, bike racks, or heavy boot loads can change how your car handles air resistance, which also affects fuel use.

• Keep a small bin or bag in the car and empty it every weekend.

• Schedule a “car clean” day monthly — just like MOTs, make it routine.

Financial strategies 📈

• Set a budget: Keep track of all car-related expenses and set a monthly budget to manage costs effectively.

• Use fuel rewards: Take advantage of credit card rewards or loyalty programs that offer discounts on fuel.

• Don’t settle—check comparison sites to find the cheapest car insurance for your budget.

Drive less, walk More 🚶‍➡️🚲

• For short errands near work or home, leave the car behind and walk or cycle instead — it’s good for your wallet and your health!

IAM RoadSmart’s Chief Examiner Richard Gladman said: “With the rising cost of living, many drivers are looking for simple ways to save money on their daily commute. By making small changes — like driving smoothly, keeping tyres properly inflated, and planning fuel-efficient routes — motorists can cut costs without compromising safety. Every little adjustment adds up over time.”