Everyday Fuel Hacks That Actually Work (and a Few That Don’t)

With gas prices always in flux, drivers are constantly searching for ways to save at the pump. But not all hacks are created equal. Some are rooted in real-world savings, while others are more myth than money-maker. Here’s a breakdown of everyday fuel hacks—what works, what doesn’t, and how to actually cut your fuel costs without changing your lifestyle too much.

Fuel Hacks That Actually Save You Money

1. Use Fuel Cashback Apps
   Apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Upside offer rewards for everyday purchases—including gas. Upside, in particular, partners directly with gas stations to provide location-specific fuel deals. These apps are free to use and stack well with other savings tools like gift cards or credit card rewards.
2. Pay with Digital Gift Cards from Reward Platforms
   Buying gift cards from apps like Fluz can offer immediate cashback when you fill up. For example, you can get cashback at BP, earn rewards at ExxonMobil, or buy a Chevron gift card online and use it on the spot. These cards can be created for the exact amount due at the pump, avoiding unused balances and earning you money back in real time.
3. Use Gas Price Comparison Tools
   GasBuddy is a tried-and-true favorite. It crowdsources fuel prices from users so you can find the cheapest option near you. Even a 10–15 cent per gallon difference adds up quickly for weekly commuters.
4. Stick to Smooth Driving Habits
   Rapid acceleration, heavy braking, and speeding can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 30%. By driving at a consistent speed and using cruise control on highways, you can extend your tank’s life and reduce how often you need to refuel.
5. Keep Tires Properly Inflated
   Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure monthly and align with your vehicle’s recommended PSI. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that proper tire inflation can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.

Fuel Hacks That Sound Good—But Don’t Really Work

1. Filling Up Early in the Morning
   While gas is denser at cooler temperatures, modern underground tanks are insulated, meaning the density remains stable throughout the day. The idea that you’ll get more fuel per gallon in the morning is mostly myth.
2. Using Premium Fuel in a Regular Engine
   Unless your car specifically requires premium fuel, using higher-octane gas won’t improve performance or efficiency. You’re just paying more per gallon for no return.
3. Fuel Additives from the Convenience Store
   There’s little evidence that off-the-shelf additives boost mileage in modern cars. Most reputable stations already include detergents that meet EPA standards. If your car has fuel system issues, consult your mechanic rather than rely on over-the-counter additives.
4. Driving with the Windows Up to Save Fuel
   While rolling down windows can slightly reduce aerodynamics at highway speeds, the effect is minimal for most drivers. Use air conditioning moderately and open windows when driving slower instead of obsessing over this trade-off.

Smart Driving + Smarter Spending = Real Savings

The best fuel hacks are the ones that build into your routine and deliver consistent value—without extra effort. Use cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta to reward everyday purchases, buy digital gift cards with Fluz for instant pump savings, and rely on tools like GasBuddy to avoid overpaying. Skip the myths and focus on what really works.