Ways to save money on gas as prices keep climbing

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Gas prices continue to spike across the country as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, causing drivers pain at the pump.

According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of gas was $4 on Monday. A week ago the national average was $3.61. In one week the U.S has seen a 31-cent increase for a gallon of gas.

A month ago drivers across the country were paying an average of $3.44 for gas. In one month gas has increased by 51 cents.

Drivers in Missouri are paying an average of $3.62 for a regular unleaded gallon of gas.

Carolyn Connolly says, "They're just flying and I hate it, I do a lot of road travel almost weekly and I just can't believe the difference in price today."

The average Monday in Columbia was $3.63 -- a 21-cent increase from a week ago when the average price for a gallon of gas in Columbia was $3.42.

Drivers in Columbia say that what they used to pay for a full tank of gas now only fills up their tanks halfway.

"It's usually 30 dollars for a full tank, I'm a 10-gallon tank so it was always under 30 and now I just got seven gallons that's a half tank and I'm at $28.12," Connolly said.

While drivers are paying more at the pump and experts say the price won't be dropping any time soon, mobile apps can help consumers save on gas costs.

Gas Buddy compiles prices, allowing its users to seek the best one. The app also offers a gas card that will save users up to 25 cents per gallon every time they fill up.

Gas Guru is another popular gas-savings app. The app allows drivers to see if they will find cheaper gas near their home or near their place of work, identifying frequent locations. Users can filter searches by fuel type.

GetUpside is an app that can save users around 25 cents a gallon. This app requires users to save receipts and take a photo in the app to save money. Users will get real cashback through a check or PayPal account. They can also get discounts on car washes, oil changes and convenience store purchases using the app.

AAA says to save money on gas it's important to

• Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
• Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
• Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.
• Minimize use of air conditioning.
• Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
• Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
• Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
• When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel.
• When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.