It’s no big news anymore: Gas prices are up.  Even with that knowledge, Mr. Thrifty had a shock the other day when he filled up his car to the tune of a $60 gas bill.  While prices may go down in the short run, Mr. Thrifty is planning on higher prices from here on out and he is constantly looking for ways to save money on gas.

Most folks agree with Mr. Thrifty.  In a recent AP-AOL poll, almost two-thirds of those surveyed expect gas costs will cause them financial hardship in the coming months.  That is sharply up from the same survey done six months earlier when less than half worried about financial hardship.

Does this mean that it is time for you to sell your car and plan on biking everywhere?  Not quite yet.  Riding a bike somewhere is a good money saving tip but it does not make sense to show up all sweaty to work, school, church or on a date.  In another poll conducted by Mr. Thrifty, 100% of the respondents said they preferred their co-workers not to smell bad.

There is hope though.  While the days of $1.25/gallon gas may be over, Mr. Thrifty does have some practical things that you can do TODAY to save money on gas without resorting to a bike or selling your current car.  Read on.