Ways to Save at the Gas Pump

With gas prices on the rise, many families are looking for ways to save at the gas pump. Check out these tips for saving at the pump.

Your wallet has definitely noticed that the gas budget line item has been increasing more and more lately. Check out these ways to cut down on cost an save some money at the gas pump.

Earn Fuel Points at the Grocery

Discounted Fuel programs at grocery stores like Kroger and Giant Eagle are even more important these days.  Not only will earn discounted fuel for just purchasing your regular groceries, watch for promotions that offer extra points on purchases. For instance, often Kroger will offer 4X the fuel points around holidays (like Mother’s Day or Christmas). Buy gift cards during these promotions to use as gifts but also for regular purchases. If your kiddo needs new shoes, buy a gift card for the shoe store to earn the fuel points. Also be sure that you read all the terms and details on the fuel programs offered, some have expiration dates and maximum per fill up purchases.

Get Discounted Fuel Prices Via Warehouse Club Membership

One of the perks of joining a Warehouse Club like Sam’s or Costco is discounted fuel prices. Oftentimes our Sam’s Club is a good $0.30 less than other gas stations. If you do not yet have a membership, be sure to look for special new member promotions.  These include gift cards and coupons that can almost cove the cost of the membership.

Try New Fuel Savings Apps

There’s an app for that… yes even gas! I have recently been using two apps for saving on gas purchases- GasBuddy and Upside. GasBuddy tracks the prices of local gas stations and if you get the GasBuddy Debit card, you can save $0.05-.10 off per gallon. Just active the price in the app and use your GasBuddy debit card, your account will be charged the discounted price. Want to save even more, use your GasBuddy card to make everyday purchases and earn “Gas back” cash to use toward gas.  You can upgrade your Free membership and get bigger per gallon discounts.  Another option is the Upside app. This app works like many cashback programs, make a purchase and earn cashback.  The way you earn cashback is by receiving a discount per gallon.  For instance, new members who use my referral code can earn $0.15 bonus (on top of the already discounted price per gallon). Sign up for Upside here and use code MARY48526. Upside also offers cashback on local restaurants as well.

Make The Most of The Discount By Filling Up Extra Gas Cans

Whether you are saving a $1 off a gallon at Kroger or getting up to $0.25/gallon cashback from Upside, be sure to make the most of the fill up.  Most programs offer a max gallon fill up per transaction, use 5 gallon gas cans to be sure you are getting every last drop. These gas can then can be used in lawnmowers or to “top off” your tank before the next fill up.

Carpool to Cut Back on Trips

One reason my tank has to be refilled so much is the amount of “ubering” I do for my kids activities. Recently I have been taking advantage of good old fashioned carpooling to help cut back on the trips. And to keep it all organized, try using the app Carpool Kids. Right in the app you can set carpool groups for each activity and sign up for dates.  Not only does it keep it all organized and send notifications of upcoming driving responsibilities, it alleviates group texts that can sometimes be confusing… and let’s be honest a little annoying. 😉

Have you used any of these to save on the gas budget? What other ideas do you use?