BOSTON -- Gas prices are higher than they’ve ever been.

Some experts believe that changing the way we drive and maintaining our vehicles can improve our gas mileage by as much as 20 percent or more.

Here’s a list of very reasonable actions you can take to improve your gas mileage.

Driving Behavior

Jackrabbit Starts: If you’re gunning it when the light changes, it's likely you're pouring gas down the drain. Listen to your engine when you "floor it," that's the sound of your pockets emptying money. Accelerate slowly.

Slow down: Some estimates show that cars get about 21 percent better gas mileage at 55 mph than at 70 mph.

Anticipate Stops: Look ahead as you're driving. If there's congestion or a stop sign ahead, take your foot off the gas and coast as much as possible. Getting to the red light faster isn't going to save you time.

Bumper-to-Bumper Traffic: Don't be so aggressive in traffic. If traffic is jammed, the constant repetition of accelerating – braking – accelerating – braking burns a huge amount of gas. You'll get better mileage if you allow more space between your car and the car in front of you.

Turn off the AC: It might be somewhat less comfortable. No one said it was going to be easy.

Right foot driving: Use your right foot for both accelerating and braking. This reduces the chance that you might be accidentally riding the brake.

Hills: Build up speed before you reach a hill; maintain steady speed on the up-slope, then coast down the other side.

If you’re stopped for more than 30 seconds, shut off your engine.

Car Care Suggestions

Tire Pressure: Make sure your tires are properly inflated.

Keep your engine tuned: A hard-starting engine wastes gas. Think about new spark plugs and filters. Having your mechanic tweak the timing could help, too.

Oil Change: Make sure to change your oil regularly.

Alignment: Keep your wheels aligned.

Clean out your trunk: Every unnecessary pound increases gas consumption.

On Your roof: Remove items that cause wind resistance such as luggage and bike racks.

Lifestyle Suggestions

For shorter trips, walk or bike instead. Get a little exercise.

Consider car pooling

Take the MBTA

Avoid driving during rush hour when you’re much more likely to sit in traffic.

Let your kids run errands. They have young legs, make them earn their rent.

Consolidate errands and try to get everything done in one trip.

Plan ahead so that you are not late and don’t need to speed to appointments.