(This post was inspired by and includes information from an article on Yahoo Finance.)

We typically expect gas prices to rise during the busy summer travel months, but, according to Triple A, gas prices have never been as high as they are right now so early in the year. And some analysts are predicting prices of up to five dollars per gallon this summer.

So, what can you do to lessen the impact of high gas prices on your wallet? A few suggestions:

1) Check gas prices via websites and mobile apps
Thanks to websites such as GasBuddy.com and GasPriceWatch.com, you can find the best prices quickly without wasting gas driving all over town. Take advantage of them when it’s time to fill up.

2) Don’t pay for convenience
The easier a gas station is to find, the more you're going to pay. Stations just off the highway exit often charge more because they know that most people will pay for the easy-off / easy-on convenience. But, if you’re willing to search out gas stations that are a bit off the beaten path, you usually will find lower prices. Also, avoid filling up in affluent areas of town.

3) Fill up at the right time
According to GasBuddy.com, Wednesday is the best day of the week to fill your tank. Gas prices tend to rise on the weekends, so gas up in the middle of the week to save money.

4) Check out credit card and reward programs
Look into the benefits offered by gas stations and area merchants. For instance, you may be able to save money on gas by shopping at a certain grocery store. Just do the math to make sure the savings are worth any extra effort or driving on your part.

5) Make sure your vehicle is running as efficiently as possible
Is your tire pressure correct? Have you removed all excess weight from your vehicle? Is the engine tuned up? Are the filters clean? Stop into any Mountain View Tire location and we’ll make sure your ride is runnin’ right!