Fuel efficiency doesn’t have to mean obsessing over every mile or constantly checking your dashboard readout. In fact, some of the most effective ways to stretch your tank are also the most effortless. By building just a few smarter driving habits into your routine, you can save money on gas without giving it much thought at all.

Here’s how to drive more efficiently—with minimal effort and maximum payoff.

Brake Earlier and Smoother

Late, hard braking isn’t just rough on your brakes—it’s bad for fuel economy too. Every time you slam the brakes, you’re essentially wasting the energy your car just used to accelerate.

Instead, try easing off the gas earlier as you approach stop signs, red lights, or traffic. It allows your car to slow down gradually and makes better use of momentum. Over time, this becomes second nature—and helps reduce both fuel use and wear on your car.

Use Cruise Control (When It Makes Sense)

One of the easiest ways to improve gas mileage on the highway is simply pressing a button. Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, which reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking—the two biggest fuel drains.

Use cruise control on flat, open highways when traffic is light. Just be sure to avoid it in heavy traffic, hilly terrain, or slick road conditions where manual control is safer.

Avoid Jackrabbit Starts

Flooring the gas pedal might feel fun, but it burns fuel fast. Quick, aggressive acceleration forces your engine to work harder than necessary, especially from a full stop.

The fix is simple: take off more gradually. Ease into your speed instead of launching forward. You’ll barely notice the difference in timing—but your fuel gauge definitely will.

Bonus Habits That Make a Big Difference

• Coast when possible: Let gravity and momentum help reduce your need to accelerate or brake.
• Keep your speed consistent: Rapid fluctuations in speed, even small ones, can eat away at fuel efficiency.
• Limit unnecessary idling: If you’re parked for more than a minute, turning off your engine can save fuel and reduce emissions.

You don’t need a new car or a fancy fuel tracker to drive more efficiently. With small shifts like braking earlier, using cruise control, and accelerating more smoothly, you can save money on gas without even thinking about it. These habits quickly become automatic—and they’ll keep your tank fuller, longer.