Gas prices are unpredictable and can fluctuate drastically from week to week. One day, you might fill up your tank for $50, and the next, you could be paying nearly double. These changes are driven by factors like global oil supply, political tensions, trade disputes, and refinery disruptions. Even natural disasters can impact fuel costs, making it challenging to budget for gas.
While you can’t control the price of fuel, you can take steps to minimize costs. Keeping your tires properly inflated, using cruise control on highways, and avoiding sudden acceleration can improve fuel efficiency. Planning routes to avoid traffic and unnecessary detours can also help. However, one of the easiest ways to save money is by using apps that track gas prices and offer rewards or discounts.
First United Bank & Trust has assembled this list of six money-saving apps that can help you cut your fuel expenses and find the best prices near you.
GasBuddy
GasBuddy is one of the most popular websites and apps, but it comes with some challenges. The site relies on people to report the lowest prices they see. Some reviewers have complained that many people are not posting prices they see but their best guesses. The app is great for trip planning. You can put in your destination and get an idea of how much money you will need to spend on fuel based on the average costs. Users can earn points and win free gas through the app’s promotions. While it can be a useful tool, the accuracy of the reported gas prices depends entirely on user participation, which means the information isn’t always reliable. Despite this, many travelers still find Gas Buddy helpful for budgeting their fuel costs and saving money on the road.
Gas Guru
Gas Guru is similar to Gas Buddy and may be a better option if you don’t have a lot of storage space on your phone. The app provides real-time gas price updates based on user submissions, helping drivers locate the cheapest fuel in their area. However, like Gas Buddy, the accuracy of these prices depends on how often users update them. If prices are outdated or incorrect, you might end up at a station that costs more than expected. Some users appreciate the simpler interface of Gas Guru compared to other gas price apps, making it a solid choice for those who want a no-frills way to save on fuel. While it may not have all the features of its competitors, Gas Guru remains a convenient option for budget-conscious drivers.
Waze
Waze is a navigation tool that can save money for you at the pump, too. For example, you plan your fuel costs using Gas Buddy, but you don’t plan for the 10-car pileup that leaves you stalled on the interstate for hours. Waze can alert you to upcoming traffic hazards and reroute you so that you can save fuel costs (and time!). The app relies on real-time reports from other drivers, providing updates on accidents, road closures, and even speed traps. While it may not focus specifically on gas prices, its ability to help drivers avoid unnecessary delays can lead to significant fuel savings. Many users appreciate Waze’s interactive features, including its ability to suggest the most efficient routes based on live traffic conditions. With millions of drivers contributing to its reports, Waze is a valuable tool for anyone looking to cut down on wasted fuel and time.
MapQuest
MapQuest remains one of the most popular navigation tools even with new competitors such as Waze entering the market every day. Like other apps, you can navigate your fuel costs. The app also shows you hotels and restaurants on your trip so you can budget for more than just gas. MapQuest provides turn-by-turn navigation, estimated travel times, and route options that factor in gas prices, helping travelers plan their expenses. Additionally, it offers information on points of interest along the way, making road trips easier to plan. Although it may not be as widely used as it once was, MapQuest continues to be a reliable navigation tool for those who prefer a straightforward approach. While newer apps have introduced more social and interactive elements, MapQuest remains a favorite for users who want a classic, easy-to-use mapping solution.
iExit
iExit tells motorists which interstate exit has the cheapest gas. You can use the developer’s main iExit app to help you plan trips. The app focuses specifically on highway travel, making it particularly useful for long road trips where fuel stops need to be carefully planned. By displaying gas prices at upcoming exits, iExit helps drivers avoid paying higher prices by stopping at the most affordable stations along their route. It also provides details on nearby restaurants, rest areas, and lodging, making it a helpful all-in-one travel companion. Unlike some other gas apps, which rely on user-generated data, iExit pulls pricing information from multiple sources to improve accuracy. For drivers who frequently travel on interstates, iExit can be an essential tool for saving money and making informed travel decisions.
While you can’t control gas prices, you can control reward earnings on everyday purchases, like gas. Search for any of these apps by name in your smartphone app store!
Roadside Assistance From First United Bank & Trust
First United’s YouFirst Checking account gives 5x rewards points for all debit card usage and that’s not all. This checking account also offers roadside assistance, cell phone protection, ID theft aid and more. Use the mobile app to find shopping, dining and travel discounts and track all of your savings! If you are looking for more from your checking account, start with First United Bank & Trust this summer. Happy traveling!