If cutting back on driving just isn’t an option—whether it’s your daily commute, errands, or gig work—you’re not out of luck. You can still reduce your fuel expenses with smarter fueling habits, better timing, and tools that make every stop at the pump work harder for your wallet. Here are practical, high-impact strategies for saving on gas without adjusting your mileage.
- Fill Up at the Right Time
Fuel prices fluctuate daily, sometimes even hourly. According to GasBuddy, the best time to refuel in most regions is early in the week—typically Monday or Tuesday—when prices tend to be lower. Avoid weekends and holidays, when demand increases and prices usually spike.
- Use Fuel Price Comparison Apps
Don’t settle for the first station you see. Apps like GasBuddy and Waze let you compare gas prices near you in real time. This is especially useful when traveling or commuting in unfamiliar areas, where price variation between stations can be substantial.
- Earn Cashback with Gift Cards
You don’t need to sign up for a gas station credit card to earn fuel rewards. Instead, you can earn cashback at BP with a gift card purchased through Fluz or other gas station partners. Many stations allow you to pay with a gift card directly at the pump or inside the store.
For more flexibility, consider downloading the Fluz app, which lets you purchase gift cards for exact amounts at the register or online—and still earn cashback instantly.
- Pay Attention to Tire Pressure
Low tire pressure creates drag, which reduces fuel economy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, keeping your tires properly inflated can improve gas mileage by up to 3%. Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips. Your vehicle’s recommended PSI is usually found on the driver’s side door jamb.
- Don’t Let Your Engine Idle
If you’re parked or waiting for more than a minute, turn the engine off. Idling consumes fuel unnecessarily and contributes to emissions. The EPA estimates that idling can waste up to half a gallon of fuel per hour, depending on your vehicle type.
- Lighten Your Load
Every 100 pounds of extra weight can reduce fuel efficiency, especially in smaller vehicles. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo space, and uninstall roof racks when not in use to reduce drag.
- Avoid Premium Unless Required
Unless your car specifically requires premium gas (check your owner’s manual), using it offers little to no benefit.
- Use Store Loyalty Programs
Major retailers like Costco offer lower gas prices for members. If you already have a membership, make it part of your regular fuel routine. These stations often offer significant savings per gallon compared to traditional chains.
- Combine Errands to Limit Cold Starts
A warm engine runs more efficiently than a cold one. Group your errands together to reduce the number of trips you take, and you’ll save gas without skipping any destinations.
- Consider Fuel-Efficient Driving Habits
While you may not reduce mileage, you can improve how you drive. Accelerate smoothly, use cruise control on highways, and avoid hard braking. These small changes help you get more miles out of each gallon without altering your route.
Conclusion
You don’t need to completely overhaul your routine to start saving at the pump. A combination of better timing, fuel apps, smarter payments, and basic car maintenance can reduce your gas spending significantly—even if you drive the same amount. For instant cashback on gas gift cards, or to explore even more ways to save, consider checking out Fluz.
