The average price for a gallon of regular gas around here is about $3.75, with premium costing over $4.00. And with the price of crude oil continuing to vary- we're probably all in for more pain at the pump until the energy mess settles down.

But you can easily lower your gas bill with a few simple moves.

1. Go Regular. The truth is that most cars will run just fine, with absolutely no damage to the car, if you use regular gas rather than premium. Take a minute to carefully read your owner's manual to see if premium is truly required, or just suggested. Switch to regular grade and you could cut 10 percent or more off of your bill.

2. Keep an eye out for the best deals. If you drive 10 miles out of your way to buy the cheapest gas-come on your time isn't worth saving a few pennies a gallon, to say nothing of the gas you use to get to the cheapo station-but it does pay to see which stations in your neighborhood offer the best deal. If you can save without going out of your way, go for it! Check out www.gasbuddy.com; it's a great service where you can find the stations nearest you that offer the lowest prices.

3. Air it Out. When you're at the station take a few minutes to check your tire pressure. Under-inflated tires can reduce your fuel efficiency. By making sure you've got the right amount of air in the tires you are going to get more mileage out of each gallon of gas. And be good about your general maintenance of the car; scheduled tune-ups, changing the oil, and especially the filter, will also help get more miles out of every gallon.

4. Curb the Need to Speed. Not only is slower safer, it's also a money saver. Driving at 65 miles per hour burns up 20 percent more fuel than if you keep it to 55 mph. Pushing your car to 75 mpg eats up another 25 percent more fuel than if you kept the speedometer to 65.

Just following a few simple steps could save many pennies in the long run- and who isn't counting their pennies these days?

Suggestions adapted from Suze Orman