9:36am UK, Thursday May 22, 2008

With petrol and diesel reaching record prices across the UK, the Bank Holiday getaway will cost drivers more than ever before.

But experts say there are still ways to avoid the hikes.

Sky fuel map shows highest prices

Louise Doherty from petrolprices.com says oil companies push up their prices as the holiday getaway approaches.

"We have charts from the last five years that show that prices are put up on Fridays.

"It is hard to notice at the moment because prices are rising so much all the time, but it is still happening." she said.

But Doherty claims if we are willing to do a bit of forward planning we can save at the pumps.

"Motorists need to be shopping around. High prices have crept up on us but planning ahead and using price comparison websites can save up to 15p per litre which does add up.

"It is also a good idea to keep your window closed to make the car more aerodynamic. Air conditioning is even worse for fuel consumption." she said.

A journey from London to Cornwall and back this weekend will cost drivers around £82. The same journey five years ago would have cost just £58.

Lorry drivers have threatened a fuel protest next Tuesday and readers of a Sky News Online report on rocketing prices have called for strikes.

Adnan Malik from London wrote: "It is about time we stopped letting them get away with it. Rip off Britain at its best again."

Rajiv Soni from Birmingham agreed.

"Come on people, where are the protests, where are the blockades, something needs to be done and fast before we see the £2 a litre sign!" he wrote.

And there is little optimism about the future trends. Prices are predicted to reach £1.50 a litre by next year.

"We have to rethink the culture of using our car all the time. The technology that produces hybrids will have to speed up," says Doherty.

But are 'green' cars a realistic alternative? Battery-powered cars can be expensive and slow to charge.

The world's first zero emissions sports car costs £78,000 and can do only 220 miles before needing around four hours charging time.

Paul Clarke, founder of the Green Car Guide, told Sky News an affordable alternative car is not yet on the market.

"We need a quantum leap in the green car industry. Things are improving and electric cars and hybrids will probably be the way forward.

"There are ways round the costs for now, perhaps working from home or teleconferencing for businesses.

"Consumers need to think laterally, car sharing schemes and public transport are going to be the best options where possible."