1. Join the station loyalty programs you'll actually use
Major brands run free programs that knock a few cents off each gallon or give points toward future fuel. Examples include Shell Fuel Rewards, Exxon Mobil Rewards+ and bp's BPme Rewards. Pick the one or two brands that are on your regular routes.
2. Grocery store fuel points
Several supermarket chains reward grocery spending with fuel discounts at their own or partner stations, including Kroger and its family of stores and Safeway/Albertsons. If you already shop there, this money is easy to collect. Watch for bonus-point weeks on gift cards.
3. Warehouse clubs
Costco, Sam's Club and BJ's often sell gas below the local average to members. If you already have a membership, fill up there. If you don't, the savings alone may not justify the fee unless you drive a lot.
4. Check prices before you fill up
Price apps such as GasBuddy show current prices near you. Some apps, such as Upside, give cash back at participating stations. Also watch for cash vs. credit pricing: some stations charge less per gallon if you pay cash or use debit.
5. Pay with the right card
A rewards card that pays cash back on gas, or a flat rate on everything, adds savings on top of everything above. One rule matters most: pay the balance in full every month. Interest wipes out rewards very quickly.
Don't chase cheap gas too far
A 15-mile round-trip detour in a car that gets 25 mpg burns 0.6 gallons, about $1.95 at $3.25 a gallon. Saving 10 cents a gallon on a 12-gallon fill-up is only $1.20. Fill up where you already are going.
Example: stacking on one fill-up
| Layer | Typical saving |
|---|---|
| Station loyalty program | A few cents a gallon, more with promotions |
| Grocery fuel points | Varies with spending, often 10 cents a gallon or more per reward |
| Cash-back card | A percentage of the purchase |
| Driving habits (fewer gallons) | Often 10% or more of your total fuel bill |
Program terms change often. Check each program for current rates and rules.
Cash-back cards
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PayPal Cashback Mastercard
A no-annual-fee Mastercard that pays cash back on every purchase, including gas. See PayPal for current rates and terms. Subject to credit approval.
See card details →Venmo Debit Card
A free debit card linked to your Venmo balance, usable anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Check Venmo for current cash-back offers.
Learn about Venmo Debit →Frequently asked questions
Can I combine fuel rewards programs?
Often, yes. You can usually use a station loyalty program and pay with a cash-back card on the same purchase. Combining two different discount programs at the pump depends on the station. Check the terms.
Are gas rewards credit cards worth it?
They can be if you pay in full every month and spend a fair amount on gas. If you carry a balance, interest will cost more than the rewards earn.
Is warehouse club gas worth the membership?
If you already have a membership, yes. Buying one just for gas only pays off if you buy a lot of fuel. Do the math against the annual fee.