(ARA) – If you’re family has started to rethink your travels because of fuel prices, you may be looking for ways to save a few dollars at the gas pump when you fill up your truck. And if purchasing a new, more fuel-efficient truck isn’t an option for your family, here are some ways you can save gas money now.

* Fuel choice: The first place to start saving is at the pump. Choose the fuel with the lowest octane level possible for your vehicle. Passing on pricy premium gasoline could save you hundreds of dollars a year, according to the Car Care Council (CCC), while using it won’t boost your truck’s performance. Once your tank is filled, make sure you tighten your gas cap to prevent fuel from evaporating. Loose, missing or damaged gas caps cause 147 million gallons of gasoline to evaporate each year, according to the CCC.

* Driving style: The less you drive, the less you’ll spend on gasoline. When you must get behind the wheel, consider your driving style. If you like to get up to speed quickly, and slow down at the last minute for a stop light or sign, you’re likely burning extra fuel. Instead, stop and start gently, use cruise control when possible and reduce the amount of trips you make each day to reduce your gas consumption.

* Reduce drag: Smooth out the aerodynamics of your truck with a truck bed cover, or a tonneau cover. Such covers, like the Access Roll-Up Cover, manufactured by Agri-Cover Inc., a North Dakota truck accessory company, are the easiest step you can take to see immediate gas mileage improvement. The roll-up cover is lockable, so not only does it help reduce your drag while traveling at high speed, it also protects your gear and improves the look of your vehicle. This cover installs easily with a clamp-on installation and can be rolled up behind the cab when not in use. For more information on the Access Roll-Up Cover and to find out how much gas money you could save, visit www.accesscover.com.

* Maintenance: Checking and changing your oil is one of the most overlooked maintenance items, according to most auto body technicians. Oil is responsible for reducing wear caused by friction between moving parts in your truck’s engine. It also helps to remove harmful substances from the engine. But if your oil isn’t clean, it can’t do its job appropriately. Also make sure the oil, air and fuel filters are clean as well. Once you’re finished checking your truck’s engine components, check your tires to see if they have the proper air pressure as recommended by your truck manufacturer. Proper inflation can improve your gas mileage by up to 3 percent.