Drivers Turn to “Smart Fueling” as Gas Prices Surge
Memberships, cashback, and apps can save up to $1 per gallon
As gas prices continue to climb, consumers are increasingly turning to “smart fueling” strategies to cut costs at the pump.
Experts say that instead of waiting for prices to fall, drivers can significantly reduce expenses by actively using memberships, reward programs and mobile apps. Combined, these tools can save anywhere from a few cents to as much as $1 per gallon.
Retail memberships are among the most widely used options. Walmart’s Walmart+ program offers up to $0.10 per gallon in savings at more than 13,000 participating stations nationwide, while also providing access to member pricing at Sam’s Club fuel centers. The membership costs $98 annually and includes additional perks such as free delivery and streaming services.
Similarly, Amazon Prime members can save about $0.10 per gallon at partner stations such as BP and Amoco, with occasional promotions offering even larger discounts. However, the service comes with a $139 annual fee.
Wholesale clubs remain a go-to option for consistently lower prices. Costco and Sam’s Club typically offer fuel prices that are $0.10 to $0.30 below local averages. Using co-branded credit cards can further boost savings with up to 5% cashback on fuel purchases.
Grocery store reward programs also provide meaningful savings. Chains such as Kroger and Safeway allow customers to earn fuel points through everyday purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts at partner stations like Shell. In some cases, shoppers can save more than $1 per gallon by stacking rewards during promotions.
Mobile apps have become essential tools for cost-conscious drivers. GasBuddy helps users find the cheapest nearby gas stations in real time, while Upside offers cashback of $0.10 to $0.25 per gallon. Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze also help drivers locate lower-priced stations along their routes.
Industry experts emphasize that combining multiple strategies yields the best results. “In a high-price environment, using memberships, credit card rewards and apps together can significantly lower fuel costs,” one analyst said.
