How to Get That Extra Mile...
Smart Tips for Affordable Summer Fun

Trips to the cottage, days out at the park, lake or beach, family reunions — summer driving season is upon us... and gas prices are not going back to 1950, or even 1980, prices.

While many families with tighthened budgets are cutting down on trips to save the gas money, there are alternatives to a summer cooped up in the house. Learn how to get the most out your summer and your gas tank.

"What better time to fuel up on tips to maximize your vehicle's gas mileage, minimize hazards and make your next road trip the smoothest ever," says Caroline Papadatos, Vice President of Marketing for the Air Miles Reward Program which partners with more than 1,600 Shell retail locations across Canada.

Maximizing Gas Mileage
Routine maintenance will save fuel, boost your vehicle's reliability and resale value and minimize emissions.

So keep tires properly inflated and wheels aligned. Tires at the wrong pressure cause your gas milage to go down. Invest in a tire gauge and use it. The optimum pressure for your tires should be in your owner's manual and also posted in the doorframe of your car. Check for it and enjoy the extra miles per gallon you'll earn!

Keeping to the speed limit is not only safer, but generally more fuel efficient than driving at higher speeds. If your car has a cruise control, set it for the speed limit and let the car feed the gas. Slowing and speeding up takes more gas than riding at a steady pace.

Combine errands into one outing while you are home, but enjoy your road trip — trips less than five kilometres burn more fuel than longer drives. If you get caught in really bad bumper-to-bumper traffic or stop for a potty break, think about turning off the engine instead of letting the car idle for long periods. An engine idling for more than 10 seconds burns more fuel than it takes to restart.

Select the recommended fuel and octane level for your vehicle. as well as diesel options. Also look for loyalty programs that offer added value on your fuel and other service station purchases.

Plan Ahead
Drinks and healthy snacks in the car are a necessity, when travelling with children, as are age and car appropriate toys, games, CDs and DVDs, and a change of clothing in case of spills.

Schedule regular rest stops or take a break when you stop for fuel. Many gas stations offer convenience stores stocked full of essentials. You'll also find lots of extra services like cash machines and washrooms.

Safety First
Summer brings increased traffic to the roads, so staying calm, alert and driving at safe speeds are vital.

Make sure everyone is buckled up and babies and young children are secured in properly installed car and booster seats. Tie down loads to ensure you have a clear view. Take a break from driving when you feel tired or share the drive with your partner.

"Safety is just as important when you stop for fuel," says Gord Reid, Shell's Retail Safety Manager. "Turn the vehicle engine off when refueling and use only approved containers to transport extra fuel. Smoking, or using lighters or matches, and use of cell phones are strictly prohibited at the pumps."

Think Local
Don't let budgets or extra work loads steal the fun of summer. If a long destination vavcation is not possible this summer, plan a few road trips close to home. Visit nearby farms where kids can see animals up close and maybe even pick some fruits or berries for lunch. Plan a picnic lunch with local foods at a nearby park or beach. Find out what days the local zoos or museums offer free or choose your own donation admissions. Check out local papers for the free events in nearby cities and plan an urban outing. Stay-cations can be even more fun than longer drives and easy on the wallet trips make taking a break from everyday stress within the reach of every family.