In recent times, everyone is finding a crucial quick fix for how to save money on gas. The reason is the climbing prices of gas across the U.S. For more than a decade now, widespread gasoline shortages have forced Americans to work a bit more on improving their driving habits. Gasoline is a necessary expense for many Americans, especially those who need to cover up distance for work. Thus, your driving habits can help you in saving hundreds of dollars.
Several factors translate your negative experience of filling gas tanks into great. For instance, how you drive, when you visit the gas station, how you pay, where you go to fill up your gas tank, and the condition of your car. So go a long way by applying these super money-saving tips on gas and chop off a significant number of dollars from your yearly gas tally.
How To Save Money At The Gas Stations?
It’s important to strategize before you fill up the gas station. Thus, focus on having the biggest savings by incorporating these tips:-
1. Find The Cheapest Gas With Gasbuddy & Upside
(i) Let’s face it, filling up your car these days can feel like a gamble. Prices fluctuate faster than a politician’s promises, leaving you wondering if you’re getting ripped off at every pump. But fear not, fellow drivers! We’ve got your back (and your wallet) with two incredible apps that are changing the gas game: GasBuddy and Upside.
Imagine having a personal gas station scout, someone who whispers in your ear, “Hey, that station down the street has prices that won’t make you cry!” GasBuddy is exactly that. This app boasts a massive network of real drivers who update gas prices in real-time. It’s like having a swarm of helpful bees buzzing around town, gathering intel on the cheapest fuel.
Not just about price, GasBuddy goes the extra mile, showing you station reviews and ratings. No more ending up at a pump that looks like it hasn’t been cleaned since the disco era. Plus, features like the trip cost calculator help you strategize fill-ups on longer journeys, ensuring you don’t get caught empty-handed in the middle of nowhere.
(ii) Feeling a little competitive? Upside turns saving money on gas into a fun game. Partnering with stations, they offer sweet cash back rewards that vary depending on the pump you choose. It’s like playing a gas station lottery, but you always win (well, except for the occasional duds, but hey, that’s the game!).
Upside doesn’t stop there. They keep things exciting with surprise offers and promotions, so you never know what sweet deal might be waiting for you at the next pump. Plus, the app’s interface is smooth and user-friendly, making claiming your rewards a breeze.
So, Who’s Your Gas Saving Champion?
The truth is, both GasBuddy and Upside are rockstars in their own right. It all boils down to your personal style.
GasBuddy is perfect for the strategic driver who wants real-time intel and comprehensive station information.
Upside caters to the playful soul who enjoys a little gamification and surprise rewards with their savings.
No matter which app you choose, the real winner is you! Download both, take them for a spin, and see which one helps you conquer the pump and leave gas price anxiety in the dust.
2. You Join A Warehouse Club
As these gas prices are skyrocketing, it has now become the need for Americans to save money at the pump. Thus, warehouse clubs like Sam’s Club, B.J.’s Club, and Costco come into the picture for selling gas to members. Often (not always, though), these clubs have the lowest-priced gas in the town. It is especially beneficial for shoppers like me who know they’ll at least drive or visit their warehouse club once a week.
3. Say No To Utilization Of Premium Gas (If Possible)
In the past few decades, the gasoline industry in the U.S. has transformed enormously. Today, a bulk of cars run fine on mid-grade or regular gasoline. Additionally, depending on your state’s requirements, the additives and detergents mixed at the refinery into gasoline for reducing emissions.
Notably, several high-performance engines fee the necessity for premium gasoline in some cases. Nonetheless, it’s declared in the owner’s manual and on the gas cap as well. When you want to know when you should use premium, it’s categorized into two essential parts: First, “required,” second, “recommended.”
Unleaded gas is known to be “regular” or “premium,” which depends on its octane level. Also, don’t forget that from state to state, this determination varies, but usually, gas with an octane rating above 91 is thought-out to be “Premium.” And the octane rating of 87 is considered regular.
Moreover, mid-grade gas with octane number 89 cracks the difference between premium and regular gas. You can spot these levels easily at the pump when you select your gas.
Higher-octane fuel helps ensure that there’s no unnecessary burning of fuel in your engine as it helps keep your engine much clearer. So, make sure you don’t use the wrong octane gasoline that can cause knocking on your engine. So it’s recommended to use “unleaded” regular gasoline that has the octane rating of at least 87-91 or 91-95.
In case of required: When your car requires premium gas, you should use it to avoid damage to your engine. And the moment your car recommends premium, you can do experiments by using lower grades.
Moreover, even if your car’s performance is good and delivers a good fuel economy, then you can avoid a premium. Also, if the premium gas rate is 25 cents/gallon, let’s say, then that makes your saving speed up to $3.75 with every 15-gallon tank.
4. Turn Grocery Shopping Into Gas Savings
Gas prices might be unpredictable, but your savings don’t have to be! Here’s how to turn your grocery shopping into gas station savings with rewards programs offered by major stores:-
(i) Albertsons
For U® Rewards: This program rewards points for every dollar spent at participating Albertsons Companies stores. Here’s the gas savings breakdown:-
- 100 points: Redeem for 10 cents off per gallon (up to 25 gallons).
- 1,000 points: Score a whopping $1 off per gallon at Albertsons Market Express, participating Chevron, or Texaco stations (maximum $25 per tank!).
(ii) Kroger
Kroger Plus Card: This loyalty program grants points on all your grocery purchases. Here’s how it translates to gas savings:-
- Every $1 spent: Earns 1 Fuel Point.
- Fuel Points: Redeemable for discounts at Kroger Fuel Centers or participating Shell stations.
- 100 points: Redeem for 10 cents off per gallon.
- Bonus Tip: Look out for “Kroger Boost” promotions that offer double Fuel Points on specific categories for even faster gas savings.
(iii) Shaw’s (Owned by Albertsons Companies)
Shaw’s for U® Rewards: Similar to Albertsons Companies’ program, Shaw’s offers gas savings through for U® Rewards.
Redeem points exactly like the Albertsons Companies program mentioned above (100 points for 10 cents off, 1,000 points for $1 off per gallon).
Savvy Shopper Tips
- Plan Your Groceries & Gas: Strategize your shopping trips to maximize points and redeem gas discounts when you need them most.
- Check Grocery Store Apps: Download the app of your preferred grocery store to stay updated on current promotions and bonus point opportunities.
- Consider Tiered Programs: Some stores offer tiered rewards programs. The more you shop, the higher your tier and the greater your gas station discounts.
- Combine Grocery Deals: Look for ways to combine grocery store sales and coupons with your rewards program to maximize savings on both groceries and gas.
5. Earn More By Using A Rewards Credit Card
Choose a credit card when fueling up your car. Going for a credit card helps in earning you great cashback. Also, purchasing gas and paying through a credit card allows you to make a great deal on reward points. The only thing to ensure is that you know all the details before opening your rewards credit card.
Additionally, payout your fuel charges every month so that there’s no interest left on your gas purchase that you need to pay. You can even use a gas credit card (rewards credit card that helps you earn points or rewards on every purchase).
Perpetual favorites with good to excellent credit available to consumers are:-
(i) PNC Cash Rewards® Visa®Card – It offers 4% cashback at gas stations for cardholders. Also, it’s one of the highest cashback rates that you find at gas stations.
(ii) The Citi Premier Card helps you earn a 3% return on every eligible (worthy) gas purchase.
(iii) American Express’ Blue Cash Preferred Card helps you earn 3% cashback on every eligible gas station purchase in the USA.
Start saving on every mile with gas rebate credit cards
Advertiser Disclosure: Penny Calling Penny has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Penny Calling Penny and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
6. An Early Fill Up Of Gas Is A Smart Move!
According to the lead petroleum analyst of GasBuddy, Patrick De Haan, gas prices are usually lowest on two days – Mondays and Tuesdays. And if you are in search of buying cheap gas, then avoid fill-in in your tank on specific days, including Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, when the prices of gas are probably the highest.
However, De Haan also extended his views by saying that gas isn’t necessarily the cheapest on Monday or Tuesday. People will see variations from location to location, and it even depends on what’s currently happening in the oil market.
Smart Tips To Save Money On Gas By Advancing Your Driving Skills
How you operate and frequently drive your vehicle plays an important role in how much you can save on gas and, at the same time, spend on gas.
1. Play Wise and Share Rides!
- Uber: The OG of ridesharing, Uber offers a variety of car types to suit your needs, from budget-friendly options to spacious rides for groups.
- Lyft: Known for its vibrant pink mustaches and commitment to sustainability initiatives, Lyft provides a reliable and eco-conscious ridesharing experience.
- Getaround: This app takes a unique approach by connecting you with car rentals from private owners. It’s a fantastic option if you need a car for a few hours or a full day, all without the commitment of traditional rentals.
Benefits Of Ridesharing
- Cost-Effective: Ridesharing can often be cheaper than owning and maintaining a car, especially when you factor in gas, parking, and insurance.
- Convenience: No more searching for parking! Hail a ride with a tap of your phone and get dropped off right at your destination.
- Time-Saving: Skip the traffic woes and let someone else do the driving.
- Flexibility: Choose the car type that fits your needs and budget, whether it’s a quick solo ride or a group outing.
Who Should Consider Ridesharing?
Ridesharing is a great option for:-
- City dwellers: When public transportation isn’t readily available, ridesharing provides a convenient alternative.
- Occasional drivers: If you don’t need a car daily, ridesharing can be a more cost-effective way to get around for errands or social outings.
- Environmentally conscious individuals: Ridesharing helps reduce the number of cars on the road, contributing to a cleaner environment.
2. Speed Up Slowly, Coast Higher, and You’re There!
As per Fueleconomy.gov, rash driving such as rapid acceleration, braking, and speeding) contribute to the wastage of gas. Also, such aggressive driving leads to lower your gas mileage by around 10-40% in stop-and-go traffic and 15-30% at highway speeds. When you’re slowing or speeding down, do it steadily. Usually, the faster you speed up, the more gas your car uses.
Also, remember to go with a gentle move on your pedal when accelerating high on the highway. Another benefit of driving slowly is excelling mileage by coasting (selecting neutral gear). Additionally, you can take your foot off the gas a little sooner and further, steadily gliding to your stop. And guess what, it does wonders!
3. Drive Smartly and Go For Cruise Controlling
Cruise control helps you in becoming fuel-efficient. On average, it even helps you save around 7-14% on gas. Without cruise control, it might be possible that you get better mileage when there’s a hilly voyage. The reason is the system in such a case is likely to downshift excessively and result in wasting gas.
Also, the continuous change in driver’s acceleration and deceleration habits contribute to eating more gas. The more you place your foot on the pedals, the more gas is consumed. However, maintaining a steady speed with cruise control contributes to saving on fuel. Also, you can ensure that you do not surpass the speed limit.
Many people look around for driving tips that are either outdated or help you save little gas that’s of almost no worth. However, you can save a lot by making reasonable changes to your driving style.
CarGurus Testing
According to the test done by CarGurus.com, braking sharply, high cruising speed, and rapid acceleration instead of coasting act as the biggest culprits in the gobbling of gas. Also, the test shows that motorists who prefer a “calm” style of driving can save up to 33 – 38 percent on gas.
Also, CarGurus suggests keeping your tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended specification (that you typically find on a sticker in the driver’s side door jamb. Additionally, it’s essential not just for the fuel economy but also for your enhanced safety and tire wear prevention, which could help you save huge.
4. Trim The Idle Time Of Your Vehicle
Do you know, depending on the size of your vehicle, idling can use nearly a quarter to a half a gallon of gas every hour? Also, it depends on the air conditioner usage, and that in total adds up to three cents of wasted gas in a minute.
Please do not start your vehicle, and then leave it operating for a long time while waiting for everyone to fiddle with your navigation or for everybody to get in. Ensure you are all set to leave before starting your vehicle. Idling is simply wastage of gas that causes even more air pollution.
5. Warming Up Your Vehicle Is Also A Must
According to the recommendation of most manufacturers, you should gently drive off after 30 seconds or so in winter. By doing this, the engine will warm up much faster, allowing the heat to turn beforehand, and hence, it decreases the fuel cost along with reducing the emissions.
6. Plan The Most Economical Route To Your Destination
While cruising or coasting, cars burn more excellent fuel at the time of acceleration. It means that the most fuel-efficient itinerary to your destination is not inevitably the shortest. Moreover, it’s the route that needs the least deceleration and acceleration – follows the path with lower traffic volumes, less congestion, fewer stoplights, or overall better flow of traffic.
Additionally, determine the route with the help of a navigation app that covers up real-time traffic data like Waze. Or else, use apps that show stoplights and various other traffic control measures like Google Maps or Apple Maps.
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Car Efficiency Matters When Saving Is In Your Mind
Your car’s condition also makes a massive difference in gas consumption. So have a look at tips on how to craft your ride in that money-saving frame.
1. Monitor Your Gas Cap
A missing cap or bad seal allows gas to vaporize from your fuel tank. Apart from this, it costs you money and pollutes the air. Thus, if your rubber seal looks damaged or worn, immediately replace your gas cap.
2. Analyzing Tire Pressure Is A Must
Did you know under-inflated tires can lower-down your gas mileage? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, such tires can even cause you to waste nearly 2 cents/gallon. Moreover, to detect suitable tire pressure for your vehicle, check out the sticker in the side door jam of the driver, or check your owner’s manual, or even scan it in the glove box.
3. Weigh Down Your Car
The lesser you put, the more light your vehicle is, and the better your gas mileage will be. Simply remove the things you don’t need to lighten your vehicle, hence the mileage!
4. Get Rid Of Racks
Take out that bicycle rack if it’s of no use to you. Also, you can lift off those big ski racks while you are at it. These racks are a little more weighty and build more wind resistance. And these two things pay to reduce gas mileage.
5. Make Up Your Mind To Buy A Fuel-Efficient Car
Whenever there’s a spike in the gas prices, the fuel-efficient cars also climb up. However, instead of buying a gas-sipper vehicle, prefer a fuel-efficient car next time whenever you need a car.
With the help of the “Find and Compare” tool on FuelEconomy.gov, you can lookout for a car that perfectly matches your needs. Also, find a car that delivers better fuel economy.
Manufacturers have recently been trying to increase performance by saving fuel. They are making this effort by making turbocharged four-cylinder engines instead of six- and eight-cylinder engines.
Moreover, a turbocharged engine is designed in such a manner to advance accelerating by burning gas much more efficiently while delivering excellent fuel economy. Nonetheless, first, test-drive your turbocharged car to ensure that you still love riding your vehicle.
If you need to cover a short distance, you can walk a few extra steps instead of taking the help of your vehicle to cover that distance. Moreover, walking down a few extra steps every day can help your waistline be in shape; it will be a win-win situation for you. By this, you will save a lot of money on gas by walking some extra steps.
Your Vehicle Is Urging To Use The Right Oil
You have the best option to increase your gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent if you use the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil. For instance, when you use 10W-30 motor oil in the engine, it’s designed using 5W-30 that contributes to lowering your gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent. Using the 5W-30 specification in your engine is particularly designed for 5W-20, which can lower your gas mileage by a certain percentage between 1 – 1.5%.
As per the U.S. Department of Energy, if you use the wrong motor oil grade, it can help you cost 3-6 cents/gallon. Make sure to use the recommended oil grade of your manufacturer and monitor motor oil designated as “energy-saving” or “energy conserving.” AutoGuide claims that synthetic motor oil – which may cost two or three times higher than conventional motor oil – helps improve the gas mileage and reduces friction in a better way.
We hope these tips on how to save on gas will rack up your pocket with some good cashback.
Conclusion
By implementing these tips, you demonstrate that saving money and protecting the environment can go hand in hand. Let us join forces, one small step at a time, to make a collective impact and create a brighter and greener future for all.
FAQs
How can I save the most money on gas?
To save money on gas, you can try the following tips:
- Compare gas prices and fill up at the cheapest stations.
- Utilize fuel rewards programs or cashback offers from credit cards.
- Opt for regular maintenance, including proper tire inflation and regular oil changes.
- Avoid unnecessary idling and reduce excess weight in your vehicle.
- Consider carpooling, using public transportation, or combining errands to reduce overall driving.
What wastes gas in a car?
Several factors can contribute to wasting gas in a car, including:
- Aggressive driving habits like rapid acceleration and braking.
- Driving at high speeds, especially on highways.
- Carrying excessive weight or unnecessary cargo in the vehicle.
- Poorly maintained engine, such as dirty air filters or spark plugs.
- Extended idling periods, especially when parked or waiting.
Does cruise control save gas?
Using cruise control can help save gas in certain situations. Cruise control maintains a consistent speed, which can result in smoother acceleration and deceleration compared to manual driving. It helps to avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations, which can lead to better fuel efficiency.
Does eco mode save gas?
Eco mode, available in some vehicles, is designed to optimize fuel efficiency by adjusting various vehicle settings. It typically adjusts throttle response, shifts gears earlier, and may modify other vehicle parameters. Engaging eco mode can result in improved gas mileage, especially during city driving or in stop-and-go traffic.
Does driving slower save gas?
Driving at a slower, more moderate speed can save gas compared to driving at higher speeds. As speed increases, air resistance or drag on the vehicle also increases, requiring more fuel to maintain the same pace. By driving at a consistent, moderate speed, you can reduce fuel consumption and improve gas mileage.
Does auto stop save gas?
Auto stop, also known as start-stop technology, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop, such as at traffic lights or in heavy traffic. It then restarts the engine when you release the brake pedal. Auto stop can save gas by reducing unnecessary idling and fuel consumption when the vehicle is stationary.
