It’s no secret that gas prices are skyrocketing these days. As of March 2022, the national average is a shocking $4.24 per gallon. If you’re looking for easy ways to save money at the gas station, keep reading on. With the help of gas trackers, better fuel efficiency, and club memberships, you could start cutting down on what you pay at the pump.
Find The Best Prices
One of the easiest things you can do to start saving money on gas is through your phone. There are apps available that help you find the cheapest gas in your area.
Gas Buddy is a popular app for both iPhone and Android devices. All you need to do is enter an address, city, or zip code and a maximum search distance. Companies like AAA and Geico also have their own gas station finder apps as well.
Gas Credit Cards and Fuel Rewards Programs
Major gas stations usually offer credit cards and reward programs that can get you a percentage back. At Shell and BP, you can save as much as five cents per gallon when you’re in their rewards programs. ExxonMobil is not far behind with savings of three cents per gallon.
It’s not just gas stations either. Supermarket stores like Safeway and Kroger can get you in on the savings too. They have grocery incentives like for every $100 you spend in their store you’ll get 10 cents off the gas the next time you use a Shell, Chevron, or Texaco station.
Cash is King
In general, customers can pay less at the pump when they skip the credit and debit cards and use good old cash. For example, some places in Los Angeles offer up to 20-cent discounts. The savings add up quickly, saving $3 if you’re filling up a 15-gallon tank.
Check Your Tires
Properly inflated tires can boost your gas mileage up to 3%, which could save you almost 13 cents per gallon in instances. But according to a Jiffy Lube Vehicle Maintenance Survey, only 60% of drivers check their tire pressure when the indicator light turns on. A simple purchase like a tire pressure gauge costs something like $10-$20 and can increase your gas mileage and save you money at the pump in the long run.
Do The Little Things
Gas is higher than it’s ever been before, so if you want to start saving money it’s important you do the little things. Using a phone app for a cheap gas station locator, participating in a membership rewards program, and keeping up with the maintenance of your car can all add up to significant savings.