It seems like just yesterday when the price of gas was fairly insignificant. The cost to fill up a traditional family car was nowhere near the fifty dollars or more most of today's drivers are accustomed to paying each time they fuel up. But short of selling your gas guzzler for a hybrid vehicle where the cost of gas is essentially a non issue, what can drivers do to conserve both their fuel and their funds? The answer is easier than you think. Map it out. You wouldn't start driving without knowing how to get to your destination, right? The same sort of mapping should be used when you prepare your daily routine and the drive for that routine. Plan one day for running errands to minimize multiple trips and excessive use of gasoline.

Try to incorporate stops you need to make on routes you're already taking, such as those to and from work, to eliminate more use of your car than needed. These small changes can help conserve your car's pricey gasoline. Know where to go when you need to go. Everyone knows that rush hour traffic translates into more time spent sitting and not driving in your car.

Look for alternate routes to avoid this frustrating, and costly, situation. Knowing how to navigate around traffic trouble spots, construction zones, or accidents can keep your car moving, and not sitting, wasting fuel. Get moving! If your destination isn't too far, why not walk or bike? Take your children along to make it a family affair and appreciate the outdoors and extra time with them. Both walking and biking are great forms of exercise and another way to be more fuel efficient.

Ride share. Rotating drivers and car pooling with co workers to the office can help everyone save a little on gas and wear and tear on your car. Don't have anyone with whom to commute? See if there's a bus route that can take you where you need to be. Public transportation is affordable, convenient and means you'll spend less on gas for your vehicle. Use care in keeping up your car. Vehicle maintenance should be done on a regular basis to ensure your car is running optimally.

This means checking fluid levels and looking for potential leaks that could increase your car's fuel consumption, as well as be indicative of the need for potential repairs. It also means checking tire pressure weekly and having them rotated when you have your car's oil changed. Watch for signs of wear and tear, as a car with solid tires will get better gas performance on the road. A well-maintained car will run more efficiently and, in turn, will perform better on the road.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as a car polish at http://www.stopwaxing.com