Soaring fuel prices mean some families are now curtailing their usual grocery shop, it is claimed by AA Ireland.
The motoring company has also warned that people are deciding against spending their money on summer staycations because of the cost of driving around Ireland.
The experts at the Automobile Association (AA Ireland) said that only two-in-10 motorists are not being massively affected by the spirally costs.
Read More: Expert reveals best way to save up to €7 on fuel every time you fill up your tank
They calculated that 80% of drivers are taking the hit as petrol prices have increased by 11.5% in the past fortnight – and is “affecting families' food shopping and family activities”.
Prices have jumped so high that AA Ireland found that the average petrol driver is now spending €750 more per year compared to last year.
The average diesel driver is now spending €640 more per year, according to the motoring company.
It said that diesel is now 45% more expensive and petrol is 41% dearer.
An AA survey spokesperson said: “Some 80% of motorists are affected by rising fuel prices, with more than half of these saying that they have significantly affected by the rising costs.
“The poll of over 4,200 motorists reveals that 27% of respondents spend more than €100 a month filling their petrol vehicle, while 34% spend more than €100 a month filling their diesel vehicle.
“This survey was carried out in early June, but based on current prices it would cost around €108 to fill a petrol car.
“Because of the rising costs, one-in-10 have switched their mode of transport to walking instead of driving and 9% have started using public transport.
“When asked what would help rising costs, 37% said they want to see a reduction in Value Added Tax (VAT).
“One-in-5 wants to see carbon tax reduced, three-in-10 wants further cuts to excise duty, while 23% of respondents want all tax removed from fuel.
“Some 35% of respondents want a temporary price cap introduced, 23% want more incentives for purchasing electric vehicles, while 23% want proper alternative options such as public transport.
“The survey exposed how high fuel costs are affecting people's daily lives, with 42% saying what they spend on their weekly food shop has been affected.
“Some 49% said the costs have forced them to cut out fun or pleasurable activities with their family.
“Three-in-10 said they are less likely to holiday in Ireland this year, while 18% will holiday abroad instead.”
The spokesperson added: “The survey results come as petrol prices have increased by 11.5% in the last two weeks.
“Petrol has gone up from an average of €1.91 per litre to €2.13. This is 41% more expensive than last year and 66% more expensive than two years ago.
“Diesel is now 45% more expensive than last year, jumping from €1.41 per litre to €2.05 per litre.
“We are reaching very worrying levels in terms of fuel costs and the survey shows that these fuel costs are affecting other areas of family life, such as food shopping and family activities.”
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter
