Whether you drive for Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, or Amazon Flex, your fuel bill is likely one of your biggest expenses. For gig drivers who spend hours on the road every day, small per-mile savings can turn into hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars per year. Fortunately, you don’t have to change platforms to cut your gas costs. These five strategies can help gig economy drivers keep more of what they earn.
- Track and Write Off Your Fuel Expenses
Gig workers qualify as independent contractors, meaning fuel is a deductible business expense. You can write off either your standard mileage rate or actual fuel costs, depending on what yields the bigger tax benefit. The IRS standard mileage rate for 2024 is 67 cents per mile.
Use an app like Everlance to automatically log your trips and maximize deductions. The better your records, the more you can potentially save when tax season rolls around.
- Earn Cashback on Fuel with Gift Cards
Many gig drivers don’t realize that paying with digital gift cards can help lower fuel costs. For instance, you can earn cashback at BP with a gift card bought through Fluz. Unlike standard loyalty cards, Fluz provides cashback instantly at the point of purchase and allows you to buy a gift card for the exact amount needed—down to the penny.
To explore other gas stations offering similar deals, check out the Fluz homepage.
- Use Gas Price Tracking Apps
When driving constantly, finding the cheapest fuel nearby becomes essential. GasBuddy lets you compare gas prices in your area in real time. Some gig drivers save up to $0.20 per gallon just by checking the app before filling up.
Upside is another app offering cashback for fuel purchases—just claim an offer, scan your receipt, and get rewarded.
- Reduce Idle Time and Route Smarter
Idling burns gas without earning income. When waiting between gigs, park and turn off your engine. Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to find the most efficient routes with the least traffic and backtracking. Even cutting just 10 miles a day through better route planning can save a significant amount of gas over time.
- Maintain Your Vehicle Consistently
High-mileage drivers need to stay on top of maintenance. Keep tires properly inflated, replace air filters as needed, and use manufacturer-recommended oil.
Final Thought
Fuel expenses can eat into gig profits fast—but with a few simple adjustments, you can take control of your costs. Track your mileage, combine tools like GasBuddy and Fluz, and keep your car running efficiently to earn more per hour and per mile.
