Software to plan routes (for saving gas)?

[StressLess]

I've been wondering if there was a website or some software that would plot out the most efficient route for me, with more than one stop. In other words, Mapquest will take you from one place to another but it won't plot out the most efficient route if you need to stop 5 different places.

I finally came across something from Microsoft called Streets and Trips that does this, but the cheapest I can find it is $22 shipped. (There's also a possible $10 rebate on it, but I wouldn't count on getting it.) I'm on the verge of buying it, figuring it won't take me long to recoup the cost in gas savings. Maybe there's a shorter route to work I haven't thought of, and I'm sure it would help me do a better job on running errands.

Any thoughts or cheaper alternatives?

[Mo102]

I would LOVE to hear some insight on this topic, as I make many stops when I am out working my business.

Thanks!

maureen