These days are all seemingly about cutting back. Doctors tell us to cut down the time we spend on Social Networks. Jobs are cut. And so are the finances. The question inevitably rises as to what we can do to save the precious dime.

Some of us have turned to cutting the energy bills, while others are doing home cooking. But there is one thing that does not seem to help you cut any costs, and which is yet extremely important for your day-to-day functioning. This thing is your car.

You drive to and from work daily. You drop kids off at school. You drive to do the shopping. You get into your vehicle to drive down to Northumberland or London, and now and again you have to take the car to the garage, especially if it is old or has previously been in use. Before long, the costs accumulate.

But is it really true that you cannot save on your vehicle? With the fuel prices rising, this is a dear topic for most of us – in every sense of the word. Luckily, there are some really easy things to do that should help you get on the right car budget track. So, here goes:

1. Plan your trips. A lot of saving has to do with how you plan your time and moves. So, even if you are in the habit of going to your local Post Office on Tuesday and to visit groceries twice a week, now may be the time to break out of the old routine and to do these things in one go.

2. Manage your time. Surprising as it may be, it can probably do your fuel budget a world of good if you plan your moves and mind the clock. Do not be late – and your fuel bill is likely to decrease.

3. Slow down. If you are not in a hurry, then why speed up in the first place?

4. Keep your eye on fuel prices in your local area. Websites like Petrol Prices will serve you information about fuel costs based on your postcode area – and they can even be found on Twitter, this current one-for-all tool. Check them regularly instead of getting into the car to drive through the local petrol stations in search of a bargain.

5. Your car is not the only option to travel. Of course, there may be many reasons why you would not consider taking a tram, train, or walking anywhere on foot. But if you can afford using different means of transport to get somewhere, then think about it. Take a train to visit your favourite weekend destination. Get on a tram to go for your errands. Take a free city centre bus. Take walks in your district, town, or city.

As you can see, saving on your petrol is not that difficult. Of course, it takes an effort to get into this routine, let alone to stick to it. Take simple steps to help yourself. Remember: by cutting your fuel prices and car mileage you are also managing time and planning your moves. And maybe even rediscovering the forgotten pleasure of taking a long stroll.