1. Look for travel deals with gas cards or gas rebates
Lodging options and destinations are offering gas-oriented incentives this summer, like the impressive $75 gift cards from Intercontinental Hotels Vacation Pay program. You can also search for deals on tourism sites like Exploreasheville.com or save on bed-and-breakfasts though the B&Bs Kick Gas promotion on Betterway tostay.com. To ensure the deal will work for you, be sure to read the fine print.
2. Use the Web to find the cheapest gas
Gas prices are greatly influenced by state gas taxes. A website operated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, www.fueleconomy.gov, gives national and regional average prices. More helpful are sites like Gasbuddy.com and Gaspricewatch.com, which use tips from consumers to rank the lowest and highest gas prices in a particular area. Note, though, that the information on these sites can be outdated, so it’s best to use them as a general guideline.
3. Look for clusters of gas stations when refueling
If you’re driving down the interstate looking for a place to refill your gas tank, avoid the exits that have just one or two stations. You’ll save money at exits with three or more stations, since competition helps drive down prices.
4. Stock up at warehouse shopping clubs
These shopping clubs also usually have the cheapest gas prices around, and many are just off major interstates or along other well-traveled roads; before you hit the road, research the locations of some on your route.
5. Fuel your rental car a few miles from the airport
Gas stations nearest airports and car-rental agencies charge the highest rates. You can save several dollars on a full tank of gas by filling up well away from the airport. But make sure you’re not so far away that you’ll have less than a full tank of gas when you return your vehicle.
