Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has suspended the state's gas tax, giving the state's residents a much-needed break on soaring fuel prices for the next month.
But while Georgia's 30-day gas-tax suspension is a nice break at the pump, it's not the only way to save some cash on gas. You can change how much fuel your car burns with some simple strategies.
In fact, a few simple changes behind the wheel can stretch every tank further, whether or not the tax break is in effect. Most of them cost nothing and start working on your very next drive.
Here's how to save gas, straight from AAA's fuel-saving advice.
The Quick Version
If you only remember four things, make it these:
- Drive steady. Stick to the speed limit, accelerate gently, and coast into stops.
- Don't idle. Waiting more than 60 seconds? AAA says turn the engine off.
- Lighten the load. Check your tire pressure, clear out extra weight, and go easy on the A/C.
- Shop smart. Use the fuel your car calls for, compare prices, and combine errands.
What Georgia's Gas-Tax Suspension Actually Covers
Georgia's current motor fuel excise tax is 33.3 cents per gallon for gasoline and 37.3 cents per gallon for diesel. So you should see prices at Georgia gas stations drop by that much per gallon in the coming days. At press time, the state average for gas in Georgia was $4.17 per gallon.
While the tax suspension went into effect at midnight on Tuesday, September 28, gas stations will typically use up gas they bought with the tax still in place before lowering their prices. But even with a 33-cent drop, gas remains very expensive. So it's worth taking a look at your car's fuel economy to save even more.
Here's how.
1. Slow Down on the Highway
This is the big one. According to AAA, fuel economy drops significantly once you push past 50 mph. Sticking to the speed limit instead of speeding is one of the easiest ways to make a tank last longer.
On open highways, cruise control can help you hold a steady speed. Just skip it in heavy traffic or bad weather.
2. Ditch the "Jackrabbit" Starts
Flooring it at green lights and slamming on the brakes at red ones burns through gas fast, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. Ease onto the accelerator instead. Driving a stick? Shift smoothly.
3. Coast Into Stops
See a red light or stopped traffic ahead? Take your foot off the gas early and let momentum do the work, as long as it's safe. You'll brake less, save fuel, and probably arrive at the light just as it changes.
4. Turn Off the Engine During Long Waits
Idling gets you zero miles per gallon. If you'll be stopped for more than 60 seconds (think long lights, pickup lines, or waiting in a parking lot), AAA recommends shutting the engine off. Only do this when it's safe and practical.
5. Go Easy on the A/C
Your air conditioner runs on engine power, so cranking it nonstop costs you fuel. We know, it's Georgia. Just use it wisely when you can.
6. Clean Out Your Trunk (and Your Roof)
Extra weight makes your engine work harder every time you accelerate, and smaller cars feel it most. That empty roof rack you never took off? It adds drag, too. If you're not using it, remove it.
7. Check Your Tire Pressure
Keeping your tires at the pressure your vehicle's manufacturer recommends helps your car use fuel efficiently. You'll usually find that number on a sticker inside the driver's door or in your owner's manual. Stick to it rather than overinflating.
Curious what else affects your mileage? TrustDALE has a related guide on factors that affect fuel consumption.
8. Skip Premium Unless Your Car Requires It
If your car is built for regular gas, premium just makes every fill-up more expensive. AAA's research found no benefit from premium in cars designed for regular, or even in cars that recommend but don't require it. Check your owner's manual and buy what it calls for.
9. Compare Prices Before You Fill Up
A quick check on GasBuddy or AAA's Gas Prices site can reveal cheaper gas nearby. Sometimes the best price is in the next county over. Just make sure the savings are worth the extra miles to get there.
Bonus tip: Combine errands into one trip and carpool when you can. The cheapest gallon of gas is the one you never have to buy.
You can also check out AAA's list of the 9 Best Gas Rewards Programs for more potential savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the easiest way to save gas while driving?
Keep a steady speed and avoid fast starts and hard stops. Looking ahead and anticipating stops helps you keep your momentum and use less fuel.
Should I turn off my car while waiting?
AAA recommends turning off your engine if you'll be stopped for more than 60 seconds, as long as it's safe and practical to do so.
Does premium gas improve gas mileage?
Not if your car is designed for regular gas. Premium costs more but won't improve fuel efficiency in vehicles that don't require it.
Does tire pressure really affect gas mileage?
Yes. Keeping your tires at the manufacturer's recommended pressure helps your car use fuel efficiently. Check the recommended number rather than overinflating.
Make Every Tank Count
The gas-tax break won't last forever, (it's currently set to end after October 29, 2026) but these habits will keep saving you money long after it ends. Drive smoothly, cut the idling, keep your tires right, and shop around before you fill up. Small changes, every trip, add up to real savings.