When gas prices plummeted last fall nobody wanted to believe they’d creep up again, but last time I fueled up, I couldn’t help but notice the increase.

Luckily, there are ways to stretch your gas dollars and help the environment – without trading in your minivan for a Prius (because who can afford that right now?!).

Here’s a compilation of tips I’ve scoured from the Web that will help you get the most mileage out of your summer dollar without filing bankruptcy:

• Plan before leaving home. Restarting your car to run several short errands can use up twice as much gas as taking care of business in one run. So plot out what needs to get done and do it all at once.
• Consider the alternatives. Got a neighbor who needs stamps too? Try carpooling to the post office – some cities even have Web sites devoted to this fuel-saving technique. And why not combine shorter errands with a workout? Walk or bike when possible (and use NO fuel!).
• Drive like Gramps. I used to be a fast driver, but I started expressway driving between 55 and 65 when I heard how much gas (and money) it saves.
• Go gentle into that good night. And day. Braking and accelerating “gently” can improve city gas mileage by up to five percent.
• Take advantage of cruise control. If you’re on the highway, cruise control can improve gas efficiency. And if you’re in a major backup or waiting for someone, turn your car off – it’ll save money and lower pollution.
• Put air in your tires. This is so easy to do and can improve your gas mileage by about three percent. If you don’t have a tire pressure gauge, ask a gas station attendant for help.
• Know thy tank. Check out your car’s owner manual for details on fueling up: many cars get no mileage benefits from using more expensive, higher-octane gasoline. And avoid gadgets that promise to improve your mileage. The EPA has found that most are shams.
• Take a load off. Or rather, take a load out. Remove any extra weight from your back seat, trunk and roof. Extra weight in a car can decrease fuel efficiency.
• Don’t skimp on maintenance. Regular oil changes and filter replacements are essential to your car’s fuel efficiency and longevity. Clean filters can improve gas mileage by up to ten percent.
• Buy efficient. If you are in the market for a new car, consider fuel-efficient models. Two birds: these cars will save you money in the long run and help our planet.

Safe summer travels, folks!

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