Don’t Let High Gas Prices Get You Down

We’re heading into the summer – the time of year when people are more apt to take to the road and enjoy a getaway.  But the current price of gas leaves some people frustrated and concerned that their dollar isn’t stretching as far as it used to.

With gas prices (and the price of nearly everything) higher than they were last year at this time, how can you reduce your pain at the pump?

Here are some tips that can help you make sure that you’re driving efficiently and getting the most out of your fuel tank.

Maintain Your Vehicle

There’s no doubt that a well-maintained vehicle consumes less fuel and will reduce your costs.

• Don’t put off regular tune-ups and oil changes: Keep your engine in top condition. It will improve your fuel efficiency
• Check your tire pressure: make sure that tires are inflated to the correct PSI (pounds per square inch). Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and save gas.
• Declutter your car: A cleaner car always makes me feel a bit more organized, but did you know that extra weight in the car makes the engine work harder, increasing fuel consumption?
• Take off exterior racks: Unless you’re using them, take off roof racks and cargo carriers to reduce drag.

Good Driving Habits

Planning your trips and driving efficiently can definitely help with fuel consumption

• Plan your trips: map out routes, combine errands into one trip, and avoid heavy traffic hours to reduce fuel consumption
• Drive efficiently: Avoid speeding, aggressive acceleration, and unnecessary idling. These habits increase fuel usage by 10% to 40% according to the New York Department of Transportation.
• Turn off your air conditioner: Running the air conditioner reduces your engine’s MPG by about 25% according to the Energy Department. If you don’t really need to use it, don’t; and don’t set the temperature lower than necessary if you do use it.
• Use cruise control: using cruise control helps keep a constant speed and ultimately saves gas on the highway.

Check out Loyalty Programs and Rewards

Apps, gas station and store reward programs and credit cards can help you save.

• Use gas reward apps: they can help you find the cheapest gas stations. You may even earn cash back by using them.
• Join loyalty programs: Many gas stations and stores offer discounts if you sign up for their reward programs.
• Check your credit cards for point incentives: Some credit cards offer extra points or rewards if you use them for gas purchases – even for a limited time. It might not save money at the pump right now, but you could use those points for other things later!

Consider Other Forms of Transportation

• Public transportation: If you have a reliable public transportation system, consider using that. It will significantly reduce your visits to the gas pump!
• Carpooling: Sharing rides with friends or co-workers can definitely lower your fuel expenses
• Biking or walking: For short distances, consider riding your bike or taking a walk. You’ll save on fuel and get some exercise at the same time!

Other Ideas

• Shop around for gas prices: Prices can vary between stations, so compare before filling up.
• Skip premium fuel: Unless your car specifically requires it, skip the premium pump and use regular.

Making a few tweaks to your driving habits and how you purchase gas at the pump can help you navigate your summer travel and beyond.

Now through August 31st, all Summit Signature and Platinum credit cardholders will receive extra points for gym memberships, utilities, gas, restaurants, travel and streaming services when they use their card*. Signature cardholders will receive 3x points in these categories and Platinum cardholders will receive 2x points. Visit any branch or summitfcu.org for all the details!

*Membership eligibility required. Subject to credit approval. Must be 18 years of age or older to apply. 6/1/26 through 8/31/26, Visa Signature®️ Credit Cards are eligible for 3X points and Visa®️ Platinum Credit Cards are eligible for 2X points. Bonus points are awarded based on purchases posted to account in the merchant categories associated with gym memberships, utilities, gas, restaurants, travel and streaming services by 8/31/26. Points rewarded will be based on net purchases (sum of eligible purchase transactions minus returns and refunds) posted to your account at the close of each billing cycle. New cardholders: For Visa®️ Platinum Card accounts opened between 6/1/26 and 8/31/26. Cardholders will receive 3,000 bonus points statement credit upon spending $1,500 in eligible purchase transactions within 90 days of account opening.