How to beat fuel price tax rises

Today's VAT increase from 17.5% to 20% means the Treasury will take more tax from every litre of fuel that you buy.

Add that to other increases in price and fuel duty, and a typical two-car family's monthly fuel bills will increase by more than 30 compared with the same time last year, according to the AA.

Most motorists, however, should be able to offset the increases, and even save money compared with last year, if they follow a few simple rules. Here's how:

Beat the fuel tax rises
The first step is to shop around for the best pump prices. Websites such as petrolprices.com, or mobile phone applications, such as i192 from 192.com, can help you locate the cheapest fuel price in your area or on your route.

Next is to look at the way you use and drive your car. Changing the way you drive can have a huge impact on how much fuel you use, so if you'd like to cut your bills you can follow our guide to greener motoring.

Print out the checklist, follow the advice and get saving.