Gas prices are climbing across the country, recently hitting a national average of $3.47 per gallon.
This increase, largely caused by international conflicts affecting oil supplies, has many drivers worried about their budgets.
If you're looking for ways to spend less at the pump, here are 10 practical tips to help you save.
1. Skip the Premium Gas
Unless your car’s manual specifically says you must use premium fuel, stick to regular. Most cars do not run any better or last any longer on higher-octane gas.
Since premium can cost 20 to 40 cents more per gallon, switching to regular is one of the easiest ways to save immediately.
2. Use Gas-Finding Apps
Gas prices can vary significantly even between stations on the same street. Use free apps like GasBuddy, Waze, or AAA to see real-time prices near you.
You can also search for "gas near me" on Google Maps or Apple Maps to find the best deal before you leave the house.
3. Join Grocery Store Rewards Programs
Many grocery chains offer fuel points when you buy food. For every dollar you spend on groceries, you can often earn cents off each gallon of gas at participating stations.
If you shop at these stores anyway, make sure you sign up for their free loyalty programs.
4. Use the Right Credit Card
Some credit cards offer "cash back" specifically for gas purchases. If you use a card that gives you 2% to 5% back on fuel, you are essentially getting a discount every time you fill up.
Just be sure to pay the bill in full every month so you don’t lose your savings to interest charges.
5. Pay with Cash
Many gas stations charge a lower price to customers who pay with cash because it saves the station from paying credit card processing fees.
This can sometimes save you 10 cents or more per gallon. Check the signs at the station to see if there is a "Cash" vs. "Credit" price difference.
6. Fill Up Early in the Week
Gas prices often fluctuate depending on the day of the week. Usually, prices are lower on Mondays and Tuesdays and tend to rise on Fridays and Saturdays when more people are traveling.
To get the best rate, try to fill your tank at the beginning of the work week.
7. Carpool Whenever Possible
The less you drive, the less gas you buy. If you live near co-workers or other parents at your child's school, try taking turns driving.
Sharing the ride even a few days a week can significantly cut down on your monthly fuel costs.
8. Plan Your Errands Efficiently
Think about your route before you leave. Instead of making several small trips throughout the week, try to do all your errands in one day.
Grouping stops together reduces the total miles you drive and keeps your engine warm, which is more fuel-efficient than starting a cold engine multiple times.
9. Visit Warehouse Clubs
Stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s often have their own gas stations. Because these stores buy in bulk and require memberships, their gas is frequently much cheaper than at standard stations.
Additionally, independent, locally-owned stations sometimes have lower prices than big-name brands.
10. Avoid Stations Near the Highway
Gas stations located right off major highways or busy commuter exits usually have the highest prices.
If you can wait until you are a few miles away from the main highway or in a more residential area, you will likely find much better deals.
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