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Don’t overpay for gasoline on your holiday road trip. Comparing gas prices and choosing the cheapest place to fuel up is wise. Find out how.
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You’re not alone if you’ll be taking a road trip to visit friends and family during the busy holiday season. According to data from AAA, nearly 113 million people were expected to travel 50 miles or more from Dec. 23 to Jan. 2 last year. Millions of people will likely be traveling this holiday season, too. As you prepare for your upcoming travels, don’t forget to budget for extra costs like tolls and gasoline. Here are a few suggestions to help you find the cheapest gas while on your journey.
GasBuddy
One way to save money on gasoline is by using GasBuddy. This website and free mobile app allow travelers to research gas prices. You’ll see nearby gas stations and the per-gallon price at each place, so you can quickly compare and choose a convenient and affordable gas station to fuel up.
You can also use the trip cost calculator to estimate your fuel costs before you leave so you know how much money to include in your vacation budget for this expense.
Google Maps
Another way to find the cheapest gas during your road trip is to use Google Maps. Many travelers use this app for GPS driving directions, but you can also use it to find nearby gas stations, rest stops, restaurants, grocery stores, and more. The app even allows you to research gas prices at nearby gas stations to avoid overpaying at the pump.
To access this feature, open the app and click the “Gas” button under the search bar. You’ll see nearby gas stations and the per-gallon price for each. Once you find the gas station you want to visit, select it and click “Directions” to get driving directions. If you’re already used to using Google Maps while on road trips, this offers an easy way to compare gas prices.
Don’t forget to use your warehouse club membership perks
Many people join warehouse clubs to save money on groceries and gas. If you have a Sam’s Club or Costco membership, you can check for a club location along your driving route. By fueling up there, you may be able to keep more money in your bank account.
Review your desired route before you depart so you know what to expect. Don’t forget to put your membership card in your wallet. If there isn’t a club location along your driving route, you may want to research other gas station prices to avoid wasting time and gasoline.
Earn rewards on your fuel up
Comparing prices and choosing a more affordable place to stop for fuel can help you save money on travel expenses. But you can also earn rewards when you fill up your tank.
Consider using one of the best rewards credit cards when you stop to buy gas. You can earn points or miles when you charge gas purchases on this type of credit card.
You won’t get a direct discount when you fuel up, but earning valuable rewards can be a win for your personal finances. If you prefer to earn cash back rewards instead, review our list of the best cash back credit cards. Safe travels and happy holidays!
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The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet and Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
