Gas prices may be out of your control, but how you pay for fuel can make a significant difference in your long-term savings. By stacking loyalty programs, gift cards, and cashback apps, you can turn every trip to the pump into an opportunity to cut costs without changing your driving habits.

Here’s how to layer fuel savings strategies like a pro.

1. Start with a Fuel Rewards Program

Many gas stations offer their own loyalty programs that provide instant discounts per gallon, especially when linked to grocery store purchases or frequent fills.

Popular programs include:

• Shell Fuel Rewards – Link your account to grocery programs or credit cards to save up to 10¢/gal.
  
• Exxon Mobil Rewards+ – Earn points on every purchase that convert to cents off at the pump.
  
• BPme Rewards – Offers instant discounts through its app-based loyalty program.
  

2. Add a Cashback App or Card

Once you’re saving through a rewards program, add a cashback layer to the mix. Cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta allow you to earn back a portion of your fuel purchase when you pay through their platform or link eligible offers.

With Fluz, for example, you can earn cashback at the pump by purchasing a gift card on the spot or using a Fluz virtual card through Apple Pay or Google Pay. You don’t need to preload money in advance—just pay your total, earn rewards, and go.

3. Use Discount Gift Cards

Buying gift cards at a discount gives you built-in savings on top of rewards and cashback. Sites like:

• Raise
• CardCash
• Gift Card Granny

…offer fuel and convenience store gift cards below face value. For example, a $50 card might cost $47—so you’re starting off ahead even before other discounts are applied.

Fluz also allows you to buy gas gift cards online for exact amounts and receive instant cashback, all from your phone.

4. Combine Them at Checkout

Here’s what a fully stacked transaction looks like:

• You’re a Shell Fuel Rewards member, earning a 5¢/gal discount
  
• You purchase a Shell gift card at a discount from Raise or Fluz
  
• You use a cashback card like the Citi Custom Cash or Discover It
  
• You earn bonus points from the loyalty program and your cashback source
  

It takes less than a minute at checkout—and can easily stack up to $0.20–$0.50/gal in combined value.

5. Track Your Fuel Receipts

Some apps, like Upside, still require you to upload receipts, especially for partner gas stations that don’t support digital gift cards. Consider organizing your fuel receipts digitally or through the app’s internal history to avoid missing out on bonuses.

Conclusion

Fuel costs are inevitable, but overpaying is not. By combining fuel rewards, gift cards, and cashback strategies, you can transform your fuel spending into a steady stream of savings. Once you get into the habit, stacking becomes second nature—and your wallet will thank you.