When you’re hitting the road for a long-distance trip, the last thing you want is to be blindsided by high gas prices. Fuel costs can quickly become one of the most expensive aspects of your journey. However, with a little planning and the right strategies, you can save on every fill-up. Here’s how to find the cheapest gas and make the most out of your fuel budget while traveling.
- Use Fuel Price Comparison Apps
One of the easiest ways to find cheap gas on your road trip is by using fuel price comparison apps. These apps show you real-time gas prices at stations along your route, so you can make informed decisions before stopping to refuel. Some of the most popular fuel price apps include:
- GasBuddy: The app provides user-submitted, real-time gas prices across the U.S. It allows you to search by city, zip code, or highway exit to find the best prices near you.
- Gas Guru: This app gives you a quick overview of the lowest prices at nearby stations, helping you find cheaper gas without the hassle.
- Waze: Known for navigation, Waze also lets users share gas prices in real time, so you can see where to fuel up along your route.
By using these apps, you can avoid gas stations near highways and tourist areas that often have inflated prices due to demand.
- Plan Your Fuel Stops Wisely
Gas stations located near major highways or tourist attractions often charge higher prices due to their prime location. To avoid paying more, plan your fuel stops before you enter busy areas. Most fuel price apps let you search for cheaper stations a little further off the main road, and driving a few extra miles can often save you significantly.
- Fill Up Before You Hit the Highway
Whenever possible, fill up before hitting the highway or entering areas with notoriously high gas prices. Urban areas and tourist hotspots tend to have inflated prices, while stations in suburban or rural areas are often more affordable. Use mapping apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby gas stations and avoid filling up at the first one you see.
- Sign Up for Gas Station Rewards Programs
Many gas stations offer loyalty programs that allow you to earn discounts or cashback on fuel purchases. By signing up for rewards programs at popular gas stations like ExxonMobil, Shell, or BP, you can save a few cents per gallon with every fill-up.
- ExxonMobil Rewards+: Earn points for every gallon you purchase and redeem them for discounts on fuel or car washes.
- Shell Fuel Rewards: Save up to 5¢/gallon on your first fill-up, then continue earning points on every purchase.
- BPme Rewards: Earn 5¢ off per gallon on every purchase and redeem your points at the pump.
Many of these programs offer mobile apps that track your rewards and provide extra promotions, making it easier to access discounts while traveling.
- Use Cashback Apps to Buy Gas Gift Cards
Maximize your savings by purchasing discounted gas gift cards through Fluz. When you buy a gas gift card online using Fluz, you earn cashback on your purchase, allowing you to save even more on fuel while on the road. You can buy gift cards for top gas stations like Exxon, Shell, and BP, and redeem them during your trip.
By combining the savings from gas rewards programs and cashback apps like Fluz, you’re effectively stacking discounts and reducing your overall fuel costs.
- Avoid Filling Up at Airport Gas Stations
Gas stations located near airports are notorious for charging higher prices due to the convenience factor. If possible, avoid filling up at gas stations near airports, especially if you’re traveling to or from a major city. Instead, try to find a gas station that’s located a few miles outside of the airport for better rates.
- Use Your Credit Card for Extra Savings
Some credit cards offer cashback or points for every dollar spent on gas. If you have a credit card that rewards fuel purchases, be sure to use it when filling up on your road trip. Additionally, some credit cards offer bonus points for travel-related expenses, which means you could earn more rewards for refueling while on the go.
- Fill Up When Gas Prices Are Low
If you have some flexibility in your travel schedule, try to time your fuel stops when prices are lower. Gas prices fluctuate throughout the week, and generally, prices tend to be lower earlier in the week (Monday and Tuesday) and rise toward the weekend. By filling up before the weekend rush, you can lock in cheaper prices.
- Check for Special Promotions and Deals
Gas stations sometimes offer limited-time promotions, such as bonus points for in-store purchases or discounts on specific days of the week. Be sure to check the station’s website or app for any current promotions that could help you save on fuel.
Final Thoughts
Fueling up during long-distance travel doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By using fuel price comparison apps, planning your stops, signing up for rewards programs, and taking advantage of cashback apps like Fluz, you can significantly reduce your fuel costs while on the road. By combining these strategies, you’ll be able to travel further for less and keep your fuel budget under control.
