Installing a truck bed cover on a pickup helps reduce drag and is one of many ways to increase gas mileage.

With the high cost of gas draining many Americans' wallets across the United States, many pickup owners are feeling the burn at the pump. While some consumers might opt to buy a hybrid vehicle, many drivers depend on their pickup for everyday functionality.

Since the majority of truck owners won't be lining up to downsize to a hybrid car any time soon, there are several things they can do to start saving gas money today.

One of the most overlooked items that instantly improves your gas mileage is getting a routine engine tuneup. If a vehicle is running at peak performance, its gas tank will too.

Keeping an engine tuned can increase gas mileage by up to 4 percent. Fall is a great time to do a routine maintenance check before the cold weather sets in and people are less likely to look under the hood or take a vehicle to the shop. According to the Federal Trade Commission, here are a few tips to improve your truck's gas mileage:

• Oil It Up: As most auto technicians will tell you, checking and changing your oil is one of the most overlooked items. Clean oil reduces wear caused by friction between moving parts and removes harmful substances from the engine, ensuring your engine will run at peak performance.

• Keep it Clean: By keeping your air, oil and fuel filters clean, you can increase gas mileage by 10 percent. You can also benefit from keeping the interior and exterior of your vehicle clean, since extra weight in your vehicle and dirt on the outside cause additional drag.

• Pump It Up: Check your tires to make sure they're properly inflated and aligned. Proper inflation can improve gas mileage up to 3 percent. If you don't know what the right pressure is for your tires and vehicle, consult your owner's manual.

• Overhaul Your Drive Style: It's hard to make changes, but if you really want to see increased gas mileage it's suggested you avoid unnecessary idling, revving your engine and slamming on the brakes. It is recommended you stop and start gently, use cruise control when possible and combine errands or carpool.

• Roll On Down the Road: The easiest and most rewarding step you can take to see immediate gas mileage improvement is to install a truck bed cover on your pickup. A truck bed cover, also known as a tonneau cover, will reduce drag, making your vehicle more aerodynamic at high speeds. They also are great for protecting your gear from the elements and improving the look of your truck.