Share and Follow
Enrolling in fuel rewards programs or purchasing fuel through wholesale clubs can significantly reduce expenses at the gas station.
WASHINGTON — The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline nationwide has surged by over a dollar in just one month, now exceeding $4. This marks the highest average since 2022, prompting consumers to seek strategies to minimize fuel expenses.
Below is a selection of discount and reward options available to consumers. While not exhaustive, this list provides several viable choices for individuals looking to save money.
Wholesale clubs such as Sam’s Club, Costco, and BJ’s offer gasoline and diesel at more competitive prices at their locations. Members of these clubs can often enjoy savings of 5 to 30 cents per gallon compared to other local gas stations.
Wholesale clubs
These club memberships come in various tiers, each priced differently and offering distinct benefits, including more significant fuel discounts. Typically, memberships are valid for one year.
Club memberships often have several tiered options at different price points that offer different perks, including steeper discounts at the pump. Memberships are typically active for a year.
Gas rewards programs
Many gas station and convenience store chains offer fuel discounts once consumers sign up for the rewards programs.
After signing up for a gas station chain’s rewards program, you may be required to present proof, such as entering a phone number, swiping a membership card, or using an app the next time you fuel up.
Each gas station chain is different in how they handle the perks, with some offering immediate discounts each time you get gas while others use a point system, unlocking different deals once a certain number of points is reached, for example.
Most chains offer ways to sign up online or through an app. Check out your preferred gas station chain to find out more.
AAA recommends that people looking to get the most out of the rewards programs consider the following:
- Gas station availability
- Comparing gas savings versus flexible rewards
- Signing up for more than one rewards program
National retailers
Walmart and Amazon are among the many retailers that offer discounts at the pump.
Amazon Prime members can save about 10 cents a gallon at roughly 7,500 gas stations across the country, but the company is bringing back its gas deal every Friday in April and May.
The offer runs April 3 through May 29 and gives Prime members 20 cents off the gallon at BP, Amoco and ampm gas stations. To qualify, Prime members must link their Amazon account to Earnify.
The 20 cents off the gallon deal includes all fuel grades and doesn’t require a minimum or maximum on gallons, according to Amazon. Drivers can find participating locations through the Earnify app.
Retail giant Walmart also offers widespread deals through Walmart+ memberships. Members can save 10 cents per gallon at roughly 13,000 stations nationwide.
Things to consider
Signing up for rewards programs and memberships usually comes with conditions. For example, there’s typically an annual fee when signing up for a club membership. Rewards programs may have limitations or points that expire.
While rewards programs offer consumers ways to save at the pump, there are many more things drivers can do to save on gas. Click here for those tips.