If you’re on the run a lot, you’re probably spending a fortune for gas. An efficient way for busy people to alleviate the pain in the wallet is by use of a gas app.
The most streamlined way to save money on gas is by using an app. Settling on the right one can be overwhelming. Even though gas apps all have the same goal, each has unique features that make choosing the right one a personal decision.
Here’s a quick look a four unique ways to use your smartphone to save on gas.
Bj’s App: Low Everyday Price + Extra Savings from Shopping
The BJ’s app is for their stores, as well as their gas stations. Although anyone can buy gas at a BJ’s Gas, being a BJ’s member entitles you to the rock-bottom members’ price offered at the station, as well as use if this app.
As if that isn’t enough, BJ’s will give you an even deeper discount, simply for buying certain featured products at the store…and the app keeps track of all this for you. For each featured product (and there are a LOT of them) you buy in any given month, they will take an additional 10-cents off every gallon you buy before that month ends. If you happen to purchase the products online, you will still reap the savings.
BJ’s website illustrates how buying featured products discounts your gas:
“Stack your savings over multiple trips – Buy 1 = 10¢ off/gallon, buy 2 = 20¢ off/gallon, buy 3= 30¢ off/gallon, and so on.”
BJ’s Wholesale
Wherever you travel, your app will display the per-gallon price at the nearest BJ’s Gas, and will help navigate you to the station.
GetUpside Offers Cash Back on Gas and More
The GetUpside app actually deposits cash back from participating gas stations into your bank or PayPal account. As a plus, it also gives cash back from restaurants and grocery stores.
This app boasts exclusive offers from local businesses. When in the app, it displays a map of your current location. Highlighted is every nearby business that has an Upside discount, so you can choose.
The downside of Upside is that it’s a little fussy, in the sense that it takes a bit of pointing and clicking and research on every purchase. I find apps of this kind rather high-maintenance. You, on the other hand, may find it worth your time, if you drive a lot.
Gas Buddy: an app classic with exclusive rewards
The Gas Buddy app displays a map of your location, with each gas station and its most up-to-date gas price. They also let you know if a station offers a discount for paying in cash.
A useful extra of Gas Buddy is its Trip Cost Calculator. According to their website:
“Are you itching to get on the road and travel the US or Canada, but are worried about how much it will cost in gas? With the GasBuddy Trip Cost Calculator, you can save on fuel costs while having your best adventure yet!”
Gas Buddy
Geico Offers Less Fussy, Web-based Solution
Contrary to popular belief, some feel that there is such a thing as too many apps. The app-phobic can simply log onto the internet and use Geico’s gas price locator:
“We’ll help you save money with our gas price locator! Compare prices to find the cheapest gas prices and stations in your area. Keep your tank and your wallet full. Enter your address for a list of the closest gas stations and prices near your location.”
Geico
If you’re looking into getting behind the wheel of something with a better MPG, Geico’s website also offers a car budget calculator:
“Purchasing a new car is a big financial decision. Before you walk into a car dealership and drive away in a new veihcle, you should build a car budget to help determine the right car for you. Consider what your financial contributions will be–such as a down payment and monthly vehicle payment–and factor in the dealership’s incentives and fees.”
Geico
