Fuel prices can vary significantly—even within a few blocks. If you’re not comparing prices before filling up, you could be spending more than necessary. Thankfully, fuel price tracking apps make it easy to find the lowest gas prices near you in real time. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or driving for work, here’s how to use these tools to keep your fuel costs in check.
Why Fuel Prices Vary
The price you pay at the pump depends on a range of factors, including:
- Regional supply and demand
- Local taxes and regulations
- Proximity to fuel supply infrastructure
- Brand pricing policies
- Competition within an area
As a result, one station could be 10–15 cents cheaper than another just a mile away. Over time, those savings add up—especially for high-mileage drivers.
Top Apps for Finding the Cheapest Gas
- GasBuddy
GasBuddy is one of the most widely used fuel price tracking tools in the U.S. It provides real-time pricing data submitted by users and updated regularly. You can search by location, brand, fuel type, and even see station amenities. The app also offers a “GasBack” rewards program and a card that can save up to 25 cents per gallon at participating stations.
- Waze
While known primarily as a GPS and traffic navigation app, Waze also displays gas prices along your route. You can filter by price, distance, or brand, making it a convenient option for road trips or unfamiliar areas.
- AAA Mobile App
AAA members can use the app to locate stations offering member discounts on fuel. The app also shows nearby gas stations with updated pricing and additional travel tools.
- Google Maps
Google Maps now displays fuel prices for many gas stations when you search “gas near me” or tap a station on the map. Prices may not update as quickly as with dedicated fuel apps, but it’s convenient for users who already rely on Google Maps for navigation.
How to Use These Apps Effectively
- Check before you drive. Opening the app while at home or work gives you more options than waiting until you’re low on gas.
- Use filters. Sort by fuel type (regular, premium, diesel) and preferred brands.
- Verify prices. Since most apps rely on crowd-sourced data, check when the price was last updated to ensure accuracy.
- Plan ahead for long trips. Apps like GasBuddy and AAA allow you to check fuel costs along your route and set fuel stops in advance.
Stacking Fuel Savings
While tracking prices is effective on its own, you can combine these tools with other savings methods. For example, you can earn cashback at BP with a gift card purchased through Fluz and use GasBuddy to find the best-priced BP station nearby.
Fluz allows you to purchase gas gift cards for exact amounts, making it easy to combine instant digital payment with real-time price optimization. To explore this strategy, visit the Fluz homepage.
Final Thought
With so many tools available, there’s no reason to pay more than you need to for fuel. Apps like GasBuddy, Waze, and Google Maps put price comparisons at your fingertips—helping you make smarter decisions and save on every gallon.
