Gas Watch

Find the best prices

Mapquest Gas Prices Type in a location, and the search engine pulls up a map with gas stations ordered by price. You can also search for nearby alternative-fuel options.

Gas prices in Fremont, Calif. (Marcelo Piotti/iStockphoto) [enlarge photo]

GasBuddy A network of more than 181 gas-price websites in the U.S. and Canada, updated by citizen price-watchers. Search by state, province, or city—or enter your U.S. zip code—and you'll get a list with the lowest price first.

GetMobio Get a list on your cell phone of gas stations near you, sorted by price. The service is free; simply sign up on the Web.

Plan your trip

AAA's Fuel Cost Calculator Estimate the fuel cost of your trip based on distance, regional gas prices, and the make, year, and model of your vehicle.

Increase Fuel Economy

FuelEconomy.gov One-stop information on hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles, plus advice on how to stretch your gas dollars.

Clean MPG An online community for people who want to get more miles per gallon and reduce automobile pollution, plus the latest news stories and super-active forums.

Tips & Strategies To...

Save on gas:

1. Avoid gas stations on highways, near highway exits, and near airports

2. Avoid gas stations in expensive neighborhoods

3. Buy regular unleaded fuel

4. Buy gas at independent gas stations

5. Buy gas midweek, when it's cheaper

6. Ask your hotel, inn, or B&B if they're offering gas rebates or discount gift cards

Be more fuel efficient:

1. Clean out your car and pack light—heavier cars drag and use more fuel

2. Avoid roof racks—they can decrease fuel economy by 5 percent; use the trunk instead

3. Use cruise control—stable speeds mean less gas is used

4. Avoid idling your car

5. Keep tires full—softer tires increase gas use

6. Use air-conditioning sparingly; it hogs gas, and in modern cars at highway speeds, the A/C is ok

7. Keep windows and sunroofs closed; they can create drag

8. Keep the engine tuned and change the oil and air filters regularly

Change your lifestyle and reduce your impact:

1. Consider buying or leasing a hybrid or biofuel vehicle

2. Carpool

3. Take public transportation

4. Walk or bike to work

5. Run all your errands in one trip

6. Take time to plan your trip with fuel efficiency in mind; don't retrace routes

7. Park in the first spot you find