As fuel prices continue to climb, now more than ever, we need to be aware of how driving can affect gas mileage. While many factors contribute to the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, you can still increase the overall efficiency as much as 30% simply by keeping your vehicle properly maintained and watching your driving technique. Here are ten tips you can follow that will make a difference you'll see on your gas gauge.

1. Avoid aggressive driving - Rapid acceleration and hard braking can increase fuel consumption by as much as 40%. The proper way to accelerate is slowly and smoothly, then get into high gear as soon as possible.

2. Drive steadily at posted speeds - Increasing your speed from 55 mph to 75 mph can increase fuel consumption as much as 20%.

3. Don't let your vehicle idle - Idling doesn't get you anywhere and wastes fuel.

4. Check tire inflation - Under inflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption, plus your tires will wear out sooner.

5. Use your air conditioner less - The air condition uses power to operate, and can increase fuel consumption as much as 20%. Roll the windows down.

6. Use the cruise control - On long trips the cruise control will maintain a steady speed, saving fuel.

7. Choose the right octane - Using premium (higher priced) fuel won't guarantee better performance, or better fuel efficiency.

8. Service your vehicle regularly and follow suggested manufacturer maintenance schedules - A poorly tuned engine can use up to 50% more fuel.

9. Reduce drag and weight - Roll the windows up to reduce resistance, take ski and bicycle racks off to cut down on weight and drag when they are not being used.

10. Avoid rough roads - Dirt an gravel can rob up to 30% of your gas mileage.