19 June 2012

Beat petrol prices at the European pumps

Petrol prices are soaring across Europe and holidaymakers looking to drive across the continent this summer might find that their budgets need expanding.

Petrol prices are soaring across Europe, and holidaymakers looking to drive across there this summer might find that their budgets need expanding. MoneyMaxim offers some top tips on how to make the most of your European fuel.

New figures from the Post Office show that petrol prices across Europe have drastically increased in the last five years, especially in some popular holiday destinations.

France, Spain and Italy have seen their prices at the pumps rise by a staggering 60% in the last five years. Switzerland offers motorists the least value for money as fuel prices have increased by an average of 82% since 2007 in the country.

British holidaymakers can now expect to fork out an average of £1.37 per litre in Switzerland, £1.67 in Italy and £1.48 in France.

Despite this, motorists have not been deterred from driving to or within their holiday destination of choice.

MoneyMaxim offers some top tips on how motorists can make the most of their fuel when overseas with holiday car rental:

Driving habits

One way to reduce fuel costs could be to change your driving habits. This might be difficult in a rented vehicle as you are not used to the car, however, there are a few simple steps you can take to make your fuel go further.

For example, it's commonly known that accelerating quickly and breaking sharply can use up more fuel. By driving at a slow, steady speed and gradually breaking you could cut down on fuel costs.

Air conditioning also requires power, which requires fuel, so why not just change your habits by opening a window and reducing your fuel costs?

Fill up before you go

If you are heading to France, Spain, Italy or Switzerland it could be advisable to fill up your tank in the UK before departing. However, if you have a diesel vehicle it could be worth filling up the tank in Europe as diesel prices are significantly cheaper than in the UK.