Saving a few cents per gallon here and there might not seem like much, but when you stack rewards, cashback apps, and credit card offers together, those savings multiply fast. Here’s how to strategically combine different programs to maximize fuel discounts every time you fill up.
- Start with Fuel Rewards Programs
Enroll in free loyalty programs such as:
- Shell Fuel Rewards
- BPme Rewards
- Exxon Mobil Rewards+
These programs automatically save you 3–10 cents per gallon, with opportunities for bonus rewards through linked shopping, dining, or partner promotions.
- Buy Discounted Gift Cards Through Cashback Apps
Platforms like Fluz allow you to buy discounted gas gift cards instantly.
- Example: Buy a $50 gas station gift card and get 5% back in cash rewards.
- Buy the gift card before fueling up or at checkout to earn instantly, before any other rewards or discounts are applied.
- Activate Cashback Offers with Upside
Before you head to the pump, open the Upside app and claim offers at nearby participating gas stations.
- Upside provides cashback rebates, often between 5–25 cents per gallon, depending on location and station partnership.
- Pay with a Cashback Credit Card
Use a credit card that earns bonus cashback at gas stations, such as:
- Costco Anywhere Visa (4% cashback on gas)
- Sam’s Club Mastercard (5% cashback on gas)
This adds another 2%–5% in savings on top of gift card discounts and app cashback.
- How to Stack the Savings Step-by-Step:
- Step 1: Purchase a gas gift card through Fluz and earn cashback.
- Step 2: Link your fuel rewards program
- Step 3: Claim an Upside offer for your chosen gas station.
- Step 4: Pay using your gift card and earn credit card rewards (if paying any remaining balance).
- Watch for Special Promotions
Fuel rewards programs often run seasonal promotions (e.g., extra cents off per gallon) during back-to-school season, holidays, or the summer driving months. Upside also boosts cashback percentages periodically, so watch for notifications. - Combine Grocery Store Rewards When Possible
Retailers like Kroger and Safeway allow you to redeem grocery shopping points for gas discounts.
- Kroger Fuel Points can save up to $1 per gallon when redeemed at participating stations.
- Plan Fill-Ups Strategically
Try to fill your tank completely each time you use stacked rewards. Many discounts apply per gallon up to a maximum (like 20 gallons), so larger purchases maximize your per-trip savings.
Real-World Example of a Fully Stacked Savings Transaction:
- 5% in gift card cashback via Fluz
- 10 cents off per gallon from Shell Fuel Rewards
- 20 cents per gallon cashback via Upside
- 4% cashback from Costco Visa credit card
Total savings: often 10%–20% off your fueling costs.
Key Takeaway:
By combining loyalty programs, discounted gift cards from Fluz, cashback apps like Upside, and gas-focused credit cards, drivers can unlock substantial savings at the pump with just a few minutes of planning. Every cent saved per gallon adds up quickly over months of driving.