Money Matters: Feeling the pinch at the petrol pump? Here’s how to make your fuel budget go further

Petrol prices have continued to climb this month and are currently at their highest since November 2022, putting extra pressure on already stretched household budgets.

For many of us, the car isn’t something we can simply stop using. Whether it’s getting to work, taking the children to school, attending medical appointments or travelling to the shops, having access to a car can be essential – particularly across rural parts of Shropshire and Staffordshire.

So, while we can’t control the price at the pump, Claire Prince, Money Matters Team Manager, shares a few things we can do to help make our fuel budget go a little further:

• Shop around before you fill up. Fuel prices can vary considerably between nearby forecourts, so it’s worth checking prices before making a trip out for fuel. The free RAC Fuel Watch tool and myRAC app can help you compare prices in your area.

• Think about your journeys. Could several errands be combined into one trip? If you’re heading into town for one appointment, is there anything else you need to do while you’re there? A bit of planning could mean fewer journeys and in turn, fewer trips to the pump.

• Drive smoothly. Heavy acceleration and braking can increase fuel consumption. Keeping your tyres correctly inflated, removing any unnecessary weight from the car – overfilled boots, we’re looking at you! Driving at a steady speed can also help your fuel go a bit further.

• Fuel loyalty schemes. If you’re usual petrol station offers points or rewards for fuel, make sure you’re collecting them. Esso customers can collect Nectar points on their fuel, While ShellGo+ and Texaco customers can also get money off at the pump after earning points. Or if you buy fuel from the supermarket, don’t forget you’ll collect loyalty points there too.

• Look at the car journeys you could avoid. Could one trip be walked, cycled or done by public transport? Could you share a lift with a colleague or friend occasionally? You don’t need to change every journey, that isn’t always possible but cutting out even one or two unnecessary car trips each week could make a difference.

If the cost of filling your car is leaving you short for food, energy or other essentials, that’s a sign it’s time to look at your budget. You don’t need to wait until you’re in serious financial difficulty to ask for help. If the rising cost of fuel is starting to throw your budget off course, it’s time to speak to someone.

Free, confidential money advice is available through a number of organisations including Citizens Advice, the Money Advice Trust and the Money Helper service.

If you’re a Housing Plus Group customer, our Money Matters team can help you go through your household budget, look for any savings and check whether you’re missing out on any support or benefits you may be entitled to.