Report: These Gas Station Mistakes Could Be Costing You $300 Every Year

If you typically choose the nearest gas station to fuel up your car, there’s a good chance you’re wasting money.

That’s just one of the findings from GasBuddy’s 2021 Pump Habits Study which says that “convenience” could be siphoning money out of your wallet when you’re at the pump.

This Mistake at the Pump Could Be Costing You Money

GasBuddy’s Pump Habits Study is based on 2,362 responses to a survey in January 2021.

Key findings from the report show that consumers are overpaying by as much as $300 a year at the pump. Here’s how:

• Drivers are wasting $200 per year by not checking prices at service stations in their area before they buy gas.
• Not paying with a savings card is costing motorists up to $100 per year on average at the pump.

“Traffic is no longer an excuse when it comes to ‘having’ to fill up at the first station you see off the highway,” says Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “Shopping around for gas is one of the most valuable ways to save money. Gas prices commonly vary by over 10 cents but in larger cities can vary over $1 per gallon.”

How To Shop Around for Cheap Gas

Making a simple change can keep some of your gas money in your wallet, according to GasBuddy.

With gas prices now starting to rise, it’s a good time to go over how you can save at the pump. Here are three ways to do just that:

Use a Map

GasBuddy has a really cool gas price map that lets you see a complete picture of what petrol costs in your area.

Use an App

One app that can show you cheaper gas prices is GetUpside. Read our Team Clark review.

“If you use an app, you’re able to see right on your phone as you travel, right near where you are, the cheapest price for a gallon of gas,” says Clark. “And who doesn’t want to stretch every last dollar for every gallon? You know I do!”

Take a Note

If you’re not someone who uses the PC or a smartphone, you can still save money on gas.

Monitor prices on your daily driving route for a few weeks. It may be information you’ve never paid attention to before. But it’s worth remembering those figures and taking a few notes.

That way you’ll be able to figure out the trends and ascertain the lowest gas prices in areas where you drive.

Read findings from GasBuddy’s Pump Habits Study here.

Final Thoughts

There are other mistakes at the pump you might be making that are costing you. Find out what they are here.

And always be open to trying new methods to save including joining gas station rewards programs.

More Gas-Saving Resources From Clark.com:

• Buying Gas From These Stations Is Best for Your Car
• 7 Things to Know Before You Buy Gas at Costco Wholesale
• 5 Ways to Save Money on Gas at Kroger