Gas prices across Canada are expected to hit record levels on Saturday after a two-cent, overnight jump at many stations.

Fears that unrest in Iraq could affect global oil supplies have sent gas prices skyrocketing, gas price expert Dan McTeague told Â鶹ӰÊÓ. If the situation in the Middle East stabilizes, McTeauge says gas prices will either remain stable or trickle down.

In the meantime, here are a few tips on how to save money at the pump and keep fuel consumption low.

Slow down

Aerodynamic drag increases the faster you drive, so try to stay at approximately 100 km per hour when driving on the highway. This can reduce fuel consumption by about 15 per cent.

Avoid carrying items on your roof

Hauling large items on your roof can also increase aerodynamic drag and lower fuel economy. If you’re not carrying anything in your external cargo container, remove it from your car.

Drive smoothly

Try to avoid hard acceleration and quick braking whenever possible. The harder you accelerate, the more fuel your car consumes. And every time you hit the brakes, you waste fuel. Driving at a consistent pace can reduce fuel consumption by about a third.

Use cruise control

Using cruise control on the highway can help you stay at a consistent speed.

Clean out your car

Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your car. Every 100 pounds of extra items taking up space in your backseat or trunk can result in a one-to two-per-cent decrease in fuel efficiency.

Keep your tires inflated

Keep your tires properly inflated at a level recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

Avoid idling

If your vehicle is parked and you’re not anticipating going anywhere for more than a minute, turn off your engine.