How can I spend less on gas? Start with a plan.

Gas prices have become predictably unpredictable lately. The only certainty is that they’re going up, and no one knows when they’ll stop. Prices have jumped sharply in a short period of time, and many households are feeling it in their monthly budgets.

The good news is you’re not powerless here. With a few small adjustments, you can meaningfully reduce what you spend on fuel over the course of a year. Some of these ideas may already be on your radar. Others might be new. Either way, they’re worth a closer look.

Does where I buy gas matter?

Not all gas stations are priced the same. In fact, location plays a big role.

Consider these options:

• Wholesale clubs often offer lower prices.
• Grocery store fuel programs can provide discounts.
• Gas station loyalty programs may offer points or cash-back.

If you already shop at certain stores, linking your purchases to fuel rewards can create an easy, built-in savings system.

How do I price shop gas stations?

Gas prices can vary widely from one station to the next, even within a few miles. Mobile apps like GasBuddy and Upside help you find the best prices nearby and unlock discounts or cash-back offers.

• These apps are free and widely used.
• They use your location to show nearby pricing.
• Some offer additional rewards depending on how you pay.

If you tend to use a debit card, one app may suit you better. If you prefer credit, another may offer stronger rewards. The key is consistency. Even small savings per gallon can add up over time.

Does timing matter for gas prices?

When you fill up can impact how much you pay.

Recent data shows that Sundays and Mondays are often the cheapest days to buy gas, while prices tend to climb later in the week.

You don’t need to overthink it, but shifting your routine by a day or two could save a few dollars each fill-up.

There are also some lesser-known timing considerations:

• Filling up during cooler parts of the day may slightly improve fuel density
• Avoiding stations while fuel trucks are refilling tanks can help ensure consistency

These won’t dramatically change your costs on their own, but combined with other habits, they contribute to overall savings.

Do I really need premium gas?

Premium gas sounds like the better option, but for many drivers, it’s unnecessary.

Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual. If premium fuel is recommended but not required, using regular gas is typically fine and far less expensive. Over the course of a year, this one decision alone can save hundreds of dollars.

Should I use cash or card to buy gas?

Some stations offer lower prices for cash purchases, while others reward credit card users.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. It comes down to what aligns with your broader financial picture:

• Cash may offer immediate savings at the pump.
• Credit cards can provide rewards, fraud protection, and help build credit.
• Some cards offer elevated cash-back specifically on gas purchases.

Think of this as part of your overall money strategy, not just a one-time decision at the pump.

Does how I drive affect my gas use?

Your driving habits have a direct impact on fuel efficiency, and this is where some of the biggest savings can happen.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy:

• Aggressive driving can increase fuel consumption by up to 30% on highways and even more in stop-and-go traffic.
• Driving faster than 50 mph reduces fuel efficiency, with each additional 5 mph acting like paying more per gallon.
• Roof cargo and excess weight reduce mileage.

Simple adjustments can make a noticeable difference:

• Maintain steady speeds and use cruise control on highways.
• Keep tires properly inflated.
• Avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
• Limit excessive use of heating and air conditioning when possible.

These changes don’t require extra spending, just a bit of awareness.

Bringing it all together

None of these strategies on their own will completely offset rising gas prices. But together, they can meaningfully reduce what you spend over time. For many households, that could mean hundreds of dollars saved each year.

More importantly, this is a good example of how small financial habits add up. The same mindset that helps you save at the pump can apply to other areas of your budget as well.

If you’re thinking about how everyday expenses fit into your broader financial goals, it may be worth a conversation. A financial advisor can help you look at the bigger picture and identify opportunities to save, plan and stay on track.

Sometimes, the smartest financial moves start with the simplest ones.

Peter Olson is the Group Banking program manager for Pinnacle Financial Partners. He is based at the firm’s High Point North Elm Street office in North Carolina. He can be reached by phone at (336) 881-3201 and by email at Peter.Olson@pnfp.com.