There are numerous ways to save money and become more fuel efficient while travelling for work or leisure. Our public transport system is expensive in Ireland compared to other countries and doesn't encourage people to utilise buses and trains as much as we should. Hopefully this will change in the future. When i worked in South America and India there was no need to have a car for the majority of people. Minibuses and buses would drive through villages and towns every 20-30 minutes. There was always good conversation and a community spirit too with the public transport culture there. In many ways i think transport systems are far better in developing countries and our governments in the west could learn from them.

Drive at 55mph: For every 5 miles per hour we drive above 55mph we waste 10% more fuel. Driving at 55mph also reduces potential accidents as you are more in control of your vehicle.

Gear Changing: Cars are more fuel efficient when you get to a higher gear quicker. So try not to drive in a low gear at higher speeds.

Carpool: It sounds like an inconvenience but it really does make financial sense. Whether it is driving to work or getting the kids to school try and find people who are doing similar journeys at the same times. Think if it is costing you €50 per week driving to work and you carpool with one other person taking turns to drive every second week you are saving yourself €25 per week. If you get 3 people in your car pool you will be saving €37.50 per week as you will be driving your car to work every third week. There is now an excellent and reliable carpooling service in Ireland called Tripmi.

Excess Weight: Get rid of any extra items you have been carrying in the boot or in the car. Extra weight is extra drag on the vehicle.

Go Steady in Urban Areas: Most traffic light systems are designed for efficient traffic flow so if you go at the required speed limit you will hit more green lights. Changing up and down gears uses a lot of fuel.

Sitting in Traffic: If you are stopped for more than a minute in traffic turn off the engine. This can save up to 19% of your fuel.

Accelarating and Braking: Quick accelaration and quick breaking can waste up to 30% of your fuel, and the money you spend on it.

Service Regularly: A car that is serviced regularly will be more fuel efficient. Try and have your car serviced at least once a year and change the oil when it needs it. You are also polluting the environment less.

Cycle To Work: The cycle to work scheme is a positive development that helps employers to purchase bicycles for employees at a reduced price. Save up to 51% on the price of a bike. The employee can then pay the employer over a fixed period and benefit from the scheme. Cycling to the shops also makes a lot of financial sense and by utilising a bike more for short journeys each day you are staying healthy. Employers or employees can find out more about the scheme here.

10 tips for better fuel efficiency.