Fuel is often the biggest road trip expense you can control. Small changes add up over hundreds of miles. Here's how to maximize every gallon.
Gas Price Apps
Prices vary significantly between stations:
- GasBuddy: User-reported prices, trip cost calculator
- Waze: Navigation with integrated gas prices
- Google Maps: Shows prices for nearby stations
$0.30/gallon difference over a 500-mile trip = $5+ savings per fill-up.
When and Where to Fill
- Avoid highway exits: Often 10-20% higher than nearby towns
- Skip tourist areas: Gas stations near attractions charge premium
- Fill weekday mornings: Prices often rise Wednesday-Thursday for weekend travel
- Fill before remote areas: Desert and mountain stations can be 50%+ higher
- Warehouse clubs: Costco, Sam's usually cheapest (if member)
Driving Technique
Your driving style affects efficiency more than you'd expect:
Speed Matters
Fuel economy drops significantly above 50 mph:
- 65 mph vs. 75 mph = roughly 15-20% worse fuel economy
- Use cruise control on highways for consistent speed
- Slower lanes save money
Acceleration and Braking
- Accelerate gradually, not aggressively
- Anticipate stops—coast to red lights
- Maintain steady speed, avoid the gas-brake-gas cycle
Idling
Idling wastes fuel:
- Turn off engine if stopped more than 60 seconds
- Exception: Don't repeatedly restart in stop-and-go traffic
Vehicle Preparation
- Tire pressure: Underinflated tires waste 3-5% fuel
- Remove roof racks: When not in use, they create drag
- Clean air filter: Dirty filters reduce efficiency
- Reduce weight: Every 100 lbs costs 1-2% efficiency
Route Optimization
- Avoid mountains when possible: Climbing costs fuel
- Minimize city driving: Stop-and-go kills efficiency
- Plan longer straight segments: Consistent highway driving most efficient
Credit Card Rewards
Some cards offer gas category bonuses:
- 5% cash back on gas purchases
- Grocery store gift cards for gas stations (sometimes stackable with discounts)
- Gas station loyalty programs
Stack these savings for meaningful discounts.
The AC Debate
Air conditioning vs. windows down:
- Under 40 mph: Windows down is more efficient
- Over 40 mph: AC is more efficient (windows create drag)
- Highway: Use AC, close windows
Realistic Savings Calculation
On a 2,000-mile road trip:
- Driving 65 instead of 75 mph: Save ~$40-60
- Finding cheaper stations: Save ~$15-25
- Proper tire pressure: Save ~$10-15
- Smooth driving: Save ~$15-25
- Total potential savings: $80-125
These add up over longer trips or multiple travelers.