The price of gas is a constant concern for many households, and while the national average for regular unleaded is currently at its lowest point since 2021, this relief often feels temporary, with underlying supply and demand dynamics keeping drivers worried about future costs.
But here’s the empowering news: you are not powerless in this equation! Even with prices in flux, there are always concrete, actionable steps you can take to dramatically reduce what you spend on fuel. It’s not just about market forces; it’s about smart choices in how you fill up, how you pay, when you visit the gas station, how you drive, and even how you maintain your vehicle. We’ve meticulously compiled 23 smart tips to help you spend less on fuel, transforming your daily commute and long-distance trips into more budget-friendly endeavors.
Get ready to transform how you manage your gas expenses as we explore the first seven practical strategies designed to put more money back into your pocket, empowering you with the knowledge to make smart choices and save money on fuel right now.
A common misconception at the pump is the idea that premium gasoline offers performance benefits or is inherently better for your car; however, unless your vehicle’s manufacturer specifically requires it, choosing premium fuel is simply a waste of money.
The financial impact of this unnecessary upgrade is not insignificant. Premium gas can typically cost anywhere from 20 to 40 cents more per gallon than regular-grade fuel. Over weeks, months, and years, these small differences quickly accumulate into substantial extra expenditures. Imagine what you could do with those saved dollars – perhaps cover other essential bills or even treat yourself to something nice.
The advice is simple: always use regular-grade gasoline and consult your car’s owner’s manual to confirm the recommended fuel type, as sticking to the standard option, if not explicitly told otherwise, is an easy way to cut fuel costs without impacting your car’s performance.
2. **Leverage Cash-Back Apps Like Upside**In today’s digital age, cutting costs can be as simple as tapping on your smartphone. One incredibly effective tool for saving money on everyday purchases, especially gas, is a cash-back app like Upside. This innovative platform makes earning money back effortless, eliminating any complicated mental math or tracking on your part, and delivering real savings directly to you.
The Upside app is designed to connect you with participating local gas stations, where you can beat the advertised pump price by as much as 25 cents per gallon. This isn’t just about gas, either; the app also extends its cash-back offers to grocery stores and a fantastic array of restaurants. Whether you’re craving a meal from national chains like Domino’s, Taco Bell, Five Guys, Popeyes, and Applebee’s, or supporting local favorites, Upside can help you save.
Loyal users of apps like Upside have reported saving up to $290 annually, receiving this money directly via PayPal or bank transfer, or opting for gift cards from popular retailers like Amazon and Starbucks, offering flexible ways to enjoy your savings.
Getting started is incredibly simple and takes just a few seconds of your time. First, download the Upside app and set up your free account. Then, check the map feature to easily locate participating stores and gas stations near you. When you’re ready to make a purchase, simply claim an offer and tap “Check In” within the app before you pay with your linked credit or debit card. You can cash out your earnings at any time, and your money will typically arrive within two days of initiating a transfer. As a bonus, you can use code PENNY25 when you download the Upside app to get an extra 25 cents per gallon off your very first purchase.
3. **Utilize Fuel Finder Apps (GasBuddy, Waze)**Few things are more frustrating than filling up your tank, only to drive a short distance and discover a gas station offering significantly cheaper fuel. This common scenario highlights a missed opportunity for savings, but thankfully, modern technology provides an elegant solution. Several excellent websites and mobile applications are readily available to help you pinpoint the price of gasoline at stations across your area, ensuring you always get the best deal.
Popular apps such as GasBuddy and Waze are invaluable tools that provide real-time gas prices, enabling you to compare costs and strategically find the cheapest stations along your routes, preventing expensive fill-ups when your tank is low.
Planning ahead with these tools becomes even more valuable for longer journeys or road trips. Gas prices can fluctuate dramatically not just within a city, but also across state lines. Before embarking on a trip, it’s wise to use these apps to check where prices are lower along your planned route. Furthermore, you’ll often find that gas stations situated just off a highway exit or located in the heart of a major city tend to inflate their prices. Seeking out stations a little more off the beaten path can often lead to considerable savings.
Embracing fuel finder apps like GasBuddy empowers you to make smarter, more economical choices every time you need to refuel. By becoming an informed consumer, you eliminate guesswork and gain control over one of your most significant recurring expenses. These tools are indispensable allies in the quest to spend less on fuel, providing clarity and confidence when it matters most.
Many gas stations and grocery stores use fuel rewards programs as a key incentive to build customer loyalty, offering discounts on fuel in exchange for your continued business, which can lead to significant savings every time you fill up.
It’s crucial to understand that each gas station or grocery store fuel rewards program has its own rules, so take the time to read the specifics of any program you consider to maximize your benefits and ensure you’re getting the most value from your loyalty.
Beyond individual station programs, comprehensive solutions like the free Pay with GasBuddy program offer substantial savings, allowing members to save up to 25 cents per gallon at most national gas station chains, simplifying discount access across various brands.
For those seeking even greater savings and additional perks, a paid version of the GasBuddy program, Pay with GasBuddy Premium, is available. Priced at $9.99 a month, this upgraded membership offers an impressive potential saving of up to 40 cents off per gallon, along with the added peace of mind of 24-hour roadside assistance. However, it’s worth noting that certain stations, including Exxon Mobil, BJs, Costco, Sam’s Club, H-E-B, select Walmart stations, select Arco stations, and some smaller local gas stations, do not accept the Pay with GasBuddy card. Always verify acceptance to ensure your rewards are honored.
5. **Use a Rewards Credit Card Strategically**When it’s time to pay at the pump, your choice of payment method can be another unexpected avenue for savings. Smart consumers understand the power of leveraging credit card rewards. By choosing a credit card that specifically offers cash back or rewards points on gasoline purchases, you can essentially earn a rebate on every gallon you buy. This makes your fuel purchases work for you, adding a layer of financial benefit to an unavoidable expense.
Many credit cards are designed with specific bonus categories that include gas stations, offering higher percentages of cash back or more points per dollar spent. These programs can significantly offset your fuel costs over time, turning a routine transaction into a small financial gain. It’s a simple, passive way to save without changing your driving habits or where you fill up.
However, the golden rule of using rewards credit cards for gas, or any purchase, is paramount: always pay your fuel charges off in full each month. The goal is to save money, not accrue debt. By avoiding interest payments, you ensure that the cash back or rewards points you earn are pure savings, preventing any potential financial setbacks that could negate your benefits. Responsible credit card use is key to making this strategy a truly rewarding one.
6. **Choose Cash Payments for Discounts**While modern conveniences like credit cards are ubiquitous, sometimes the old-fashioned approach can lead to surprising savings at the gas pump. A notable number of gas stations across the country offer a lower price per gallon for customers who pay with cash rather than a credit card. This isn’t a random act of generosity; it’s a strategic move by the station to circumvent the card processing fees that credit card companies levy on every transaction.
These processing fees, though small per transaction, can add up significantly for businesses, impacting their profit margins. By offering a cash discount, stations pass a portion of these potential savings onto you, the consumer, encouraging a payment method that benefits them directly. This win-win scenario allows you to pay less while the station reduces its operational costs.
While some gas stations offer their cash price to debit card users, this isn’t universal, and debit cards still have fees, so it’s always best to confirm with the attendant before swiping or, to guarantee the lowest advertised price, simply pay with cash.
