When it comes to saving money at the pump, knowing where to find the cheapest gas nearby can make a big difference over time. Gas price tracking apps are essential tools for drivers who want to cut fueling costs without driving out of their way. Here’s a comparison of the best apps to help you find affordable gas easily and accurately.
- GasBuddy
GasBuddy is one of the oldest and most popular gas price tracking apps.
- Strengths:
- Real-time crowdsourced gas prices
- Trip cost calculators
- Gas price map for easy comparison
- Real-time crowdsourced gas prices
- Bonus: GasBuddy also offers a free rewards card (Pay with GasBuddy) that can save drivers additional cents per gallon at certain stations.
- Best For: Most drivers who want reliable, widespread coverage.
- Waze
Waze is primarily a navigation app but includes real-time gas price updates from its active driving community.
- Strengths:
- Updated prices shown along your navigation route
- Filters for gas station brands and types of fuel
- Updated prices shown along your navigation route
- Best For: Drivers who prioritize navigation and want gas prices seamlessly integrated into trip planning.
- Upside
Upside primarily offers cashback, but it also helps users locate partner gas stations with competitive prices.
- Strengths:
- Shows partner locations with both cash price and cashback offers
- Clear comparisons between partner and nearby stations
- Shows partner locations with both cash price and cashback offers
- Best For: Drivers who want both savings and cashback combined.
- AAA Mobile App
The AAA Mobile App provides gas prices sourced from a combination of AAA data and station partnerships.
- Strengths:
- Reliable price information for AAA members
- Includes directions, trip planning, and AAA discount information
- Reliable price information for AAA members
- Best For: AAA members looking for one-stop travel resources.
- MapQuest Gas Prices
MapQuest remains a practical tool for drivers looking to save at the pump.
- Strengths:
- Filters by distance, price, and brand
- Simple and quick to use alongside navigation features
- Filters by distance, price, and brand
- Best For: Drivers seeking a lightweight alternative without downloading extra apps.
- Google Maps
Google Maps also includes gas price data for many stations.
- Strengths:
- No need for a separate app
- Easy integration with routes and directions
- No need for a separate app
- Best For: Drivers who prefer minimal app clutter and integrated tools.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gas Price App:
- Coverage: Apps like GasBuddy tend to have more data in suburban and rural areas, while Waze shines in cities.
- Accuracy: Crowdsourced apps can sometimes have slight delays; always double-check prices if possible.
- Additional Perks: Some apps offer cashback, trip planning, or station loyalty perks beyond just showing gas prices.
Choosing the right gas price tracking app can save you hundreds of dollars each year. Depending on whether you prioritize cashback, navigation, or pure price comparisons, apps like GasBuddy, Waze, and Upside offer the tools you need to fuel up smarter.