Gas prices peaked out this summer but they are still high. Let’s be real – no one likes wasting money on gas. There are so many ways to avoid high gas prices you just have to open your phone apps or look online. The national average pump price continued its recent trend by dipping three cents over the past week to hit $3.76.
The cost of gasoline has risen in recent weeks as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine applies pressure on global oil markets. At the same time, the U.S. has begun lifting mask mandates instituted to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, a move projected to spur consumer spending and travel.
The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline at all-time highs again this week according to AAA.
With rising gas prices many drivers are being more selective when it comes to filling up. Comparing prices at the pump and researching loyalty programs are some ways to get ahead of the game before the big summer travel hits and we see over $4 at the pump.
The great thing about gas loyalty programs is that you can normally stack them on top of credit card rewards programs such as the Chase Freedom or Discover IT cards. These two cards are known to give at least a full quarter towards 5% cash-back on gasoline purchases each year.
Here are the best gas station loyalty programs:
1. Get Upside App (Variety of gas stations)
GetUpside partners with businesses to give you cash back on everyday purchases. Most of them are gas stations, but in some areas there are restaurant, grocery and convenience store offers as well. It’s best to claim offers just before you make your purchase. That’s because GetUpside puts a timer, which typically lasts a few hours, on each offer.
When you sign up via this Upside Referral Link and enter Invite Code B263E2, you’ll get an extra 15 cents per gallon cashback on gas – on top of whatever great offer you find in the app.
Before you claim an offer, make sure to comparison shop. If the deal is for gas, use an app like GasBuddy, or take a look at local prices on Google Maps.
2. Shell Fuel Rewards
Among the major national brands, Shell takes the top spot. With its program, members always save at least three cents a gallon at participating locations. They’re also rewarded when they shop at select retailers, restaurants, grocery stores and more. Rewards are redeemed by swiping the Fuel Rewards card at the pump.
Favored by 28% of GasBuddy respondents, Speedway’s rewards program beat the national big brands. Members earn 20 points per dollar on in-store purchases and 10 points per gallon on fuel purchases. Points can be redeemed for free stuff using Speedway’s mobile app. Featured items include food, beverages, fuel discounts and gift cards.
4. BP Driver Rewards
BP’s fuel savings program ranked second among the nationwide chains in a recent survey. Members earn 10 cents off per gallon for every $100 spent on BP fuel. On its website, BP says savings can add up to $600 a year! By linking your BP Driver Rewards account to a credit card that you use at the pump, you’ll earn rewards automatically.
Kroger, the largest grocer in the United States took the #1 spot in the grocery category for their points program.
The fuel program along with KrogerPlus cards allow you to receive savings of up to $1.00 off per gallon one one fuel purchase up to 35 gallon at Kroger, Turkey Hill and participating Shell stations.
For each increment of 100 fuel points (up to 1,000 point) you will receive $0.10 per gallon.
Earn points in current month and redeem thru each month. Each month is a separate accumulation period. Months’ points don’t combine in a single transaction.
6. Thorntons
For regional brands, GasBuddy respondents favored Thorntons as their top choice. With locations in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee.
7. Sheetz & Wawa
Sheetz was a top regional pick and now has more than 600 locations across six states — Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio and North Carolina. While Wawa is along the East Coast of the United States, operating in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Florida.
A Wawa Credit Card may seem like the greatest option for additional rewards unless you mainly just want free coffee. A Wawa retail card will give you 25¢ per gallon for the first two months and 5¢ per gallon after that. While it may seem like good rewards, there’s also a pitfall as you can use this card at Wawa gas stations only.
ExxonMobil Speedpass+ participated in the Plenti rewards program, which lets you earn points at one place and use them at Plenti partners such as Macy’s. One point is awarded for every gallon of fuel purchased and two points for every dollar in eligible non-fuel purchases. Members simply enter their phone number or swipe a card at the pump. The bad news is that Plenti is shutting down later this year so we have taken this off the list.
Who would you like to see on this list? Maybe Buc’ees out of Texas or for Exxon to revamp their program?
High inflation and rising energy prices amid the economy’s pandemic recovery were already making life more expensive. Now, a little more than a week into the Ukraine and Russia war, California has become the first US state to have an average gas price above $5 per gallon. Nationwide, US gas prices are surging at a pace drivers haven’t seen since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The national average record for gasoline — $4.11, set in 2008 — is within sight. That would be a huge jump from a year ago, when the national average price was $2.75 a gallon.
Who should get a gas credit card?
If you’re someone who is constantly driving, whether it’s to and from work, for daily errands or anything else, you may want to invest in a gas credit card. If you’re filling up your tank once or more per week it will certainly pay off to earn rewards and/or save money at the pump.
Gas is a regular purchase for many consumers and is one of the best categories for earning credit card rewards. The average American consumer spends about $2,000 per year on gas, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the war in Ukraine and upcoming summer travel everyone has high anxiety over gas prices being the highest we’ve seen in our lives.
Our preferred way to have a wallet full of cards you need include a gas card, travel credit card, at least 2% back card, and ones with high bonuses. Some of the best gas credit cards are offering 3% to 5% cash back on gas purchases, you can easily earn $100 or more in rewards just by fueling up with the right card.
Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
$60.31+
$0
Read Review
Best gas credit card for groceries
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
GAS AND GROCERIES
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95APR
Earn 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), redeemable for statement credits.
Verdict: High rewards rates in many everyday spending categories
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a great product for consumers who fill up their car regularly. This card is also great for families, who are likely to spend heavily in its bonus categories, especially U.S. supermarkets and streaming services. The card has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95, which may be well worth it if you spend a lot on supermarkets and gas – you’ll be able to earn hundreds of dollars per year in valuable cash back.
You’ll earn 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Terms apply. Your rewards can easily be redeemed for statement credits to cover your purchases.
Maximize rewards: The best way to earn more cash back with this card is to focus on the categories where you earn the most, including at U.S. gas stations and U.S. supermarkets.
For rates and fees of Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.
Fuel Savings: $47.73 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas credit card for cash back without spending categories
Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Verdict: Simple cashback rewards for all purchases, including gas
The Citi® Double Cash Card is one of the market-leading cashback credit cards available. It’s a simple card that packs a punch with tangible cashback earning potential. The card lets you Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
This provides a no-hassle experience, since you do not need to track spending categories like other cards — simply swipe and earn your 2% cash back. On the downside, while the cashback potential is endless, the card lacks additional features and benefits.
Maximize rewards: Because this card allows you to earn cash back on every purchase, the best way to maximize your rewards earning potential is simply to spend more on your card. The more you spend, the more you’ll earn.
Fuel Savings: $25.15 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas credit card for Costco
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
Earn 4% cash back at Costco or any other gas station worldwide (up to $7,000 in purchases per year)
Verdict: The most rewarding card for frequent Costco shoppers
If you frequently visit your local Costco, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is a must have. While it is a Costco-branded card, you can use this credit card at any vendor that accepts Visa.
Maximize rewards: The most significant feature of the card is the 4% cash back (up to $7,000 per year) you can earn at gas stations worldwide. If maximized, that is $280 per year back in your pocket. And with the additional savings you could earn by filling up at Costco, this can amount to a great amount of cash back.
Fuel Savings: $60.31 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best for Wholesale club / Sam’s Club members
Sam’s Club Mastercard
5% cash back on gas (on the first $6,000 per year, then 1%), 3% back on dining and travel, 1% back on other purchases
Verdict: A great card for Sam’s Club members who regularly fill up on gas
Drivers in Los Angeles after the war in Ukraine got started lined up for some of the cheapest gas they can find in Southern California, which is unsurprisingly offered at bargain wholesalers. Sam’s Club in Arcadia offered what is now considered a bargain — $4.29 for regular. It may be going over $7 for the rest of California.
The Sam’s Club Mastercard is a great gas credit card for consumers who are already Sam’s Club members and who value a high earning rate on gas purchases. Cardmembers will earn 5% cash back on gas (on the first $6,000 per year, then 1%), 3% back on dining and travel, 1% back on other purchases.
This card provides a strong rewards rate not only for gas purchases, but for dining and travel as well, making it a valuable card for everyday use. There’s no annual fee and new cardholders can earn a $30 statement credit when you open a new account and make $30 in Sam’s Club purchases within 30 days.
Maximize rewards: In order to maximize your rewards with this card, you’ll want to make sure to use your card for all your gas purchases (up to $6,000) in the first year. Because you can only redeem your rewards once annually, make sure you remain a Sam’s Club member with an open account in good standing or you’ll have to forfeit your rewards.
Fuel Savings: $62.89 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute). $300 annually if you purchase up to $6,000 in gas (rewards limit).
Best gas credit card with no annual fee
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Unlimited 2% cash back at U.S. gas stations and select U.S. department stores
Verdict: Solid rewards rate on gas with $0 annual fee
If a no-annual-fee card with various spending categories is your preference, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a great product to choose. It’s very similar to the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, though without the annual fee ($0). It offers a lower rate of 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%). 2% cash back at U.S. gas stations and at select U.S. department stores. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply. Redeem your cash back for statement credits to cover your purchases.
Maximize rewards: If you’re debating on either American Express Blue Cash cards, determine which offers a greater rewards potential by simply calculating your monthly expenses against the cashback earnings.
Fuel Savings: $35.15 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Runner Up: Best gas credit card for rotating bonuses
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
Earn 3% cash back in a category of your choice, including gas
Verdict: Great option for earning gas rewards during months when you drive the most.
If you love the thought of earning bonus cash back on gas only during the months when you use the most gas, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card is worth a look. The card offers 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases. You have the option to opt-in to a new 3% category each month.
This means, for example, you could select the gas category in time for your summer road trips and then opt in to online shopping in time for your holiday shopping spree. Since the card also offers a bonus on grocery purchases, it makes a fair grocery and gas card. One drawback: Your bonus purchases are limited to $2,500 in purchases per quarter. Still, this is a pretty generous limit compared to cards like the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, which caps your purchases at $6,000 per year.
Maximize rewards: In order to maximize your cashback rewards with this card, you’ll want to pay attention to your spending habits and make sure you align your rotating categories accordingly. Note, the card is an even better deal for Preferred Rewards program members, who earn 25% to 75% more cash back on every purchase. Preferred Rewards members can earn up to 5.25% cash back on their choice category (including gas).
Fuel Savings: $17.73 to $76.03 annually depending on your Preferred Rewards status (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
Verdict:
The Chase Freedom Flex is one of our favorite cash back credit cards and happens to offer a stellar bonus for gas purchases in the first year: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
While these are incredibly high rewards rates, you’ll need to make sure to activate your rotating categories each quarter.
Maximize rewards: In order to maximize your rewards with this card, you’ll need to pay attention to the rotating quarterly categories and ensure you use your card for all your gas purchases (up to $6,000) in the first year.
Fuel Savings: $72.89 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas credit card for hotels
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card
Earn 6 points per dollar on U.S. gas station purchases plus Automatic elite status.
Verdict: Excellent for earning points towards hotel stays every time you fill up your tank
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is great for consumers interested in free hotel stays. It also happens to be a good choice for earning points on gas purchases — cardholders earn 6 points per dollar at U.S. gas stations. Hilton has more than 6,800 properties around the world, so finding a Hilton property to utilize your points likely won’t be an issue.
Maximize rewards: When you stay at Hilton hotels and book directly with Hilton, you can take advantage of your Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required). This Hilton Honors status level includes benefits like hotel room upgrades, hotel credits, fifth night free, bonus points on Hilton stays and more.
Fuel Savings: $47.32 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best Visa cash credit card For Gas
PNC Cash Rewards Visa Credit Card
Earn 4% cash back on gas station purchases (in-store and at the pump).
Verdict: The most rewarding card for gas station purchases
Of the gas station credit cards on this list, we feel the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card has the best gas rewards program of 2022. It comes with a valuable and easily accessible sign-up bonus: Earn $100 Bonus after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first 3 billing cycles following account opening of a PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card.
With a $0 annual fee and an intro APR on balance transfers of 0% for the first 12 billing cycles following account opening when the balance is transferred within the first 90 days following account opening (followed by a 13.99%-24.99% Variable APR), this card’s perks will benefit you beyond the gas station. This is also one of the best credit cards for gas and restaurants: Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
Maximize rewards: You’ll earn rewards in the form of cash back, which you can redeem any time you have at least $25 in your PNC Cash Rewards account. Your cash back never expires as long as your account is open. Get your cash back as a statement credit or deposited into a qualifying PNC account.
Benefits
$0 annual fee
Intro APR on balance transfers of 0% for the first 12 billing cycles following account opening when the balance is transferred within the first 90 days following account opening, then a 13.99%-24.99% Variable APR applies
High rewards rate on gas and other categories
Excellent sign-up bonus
Drawbacks
High rewards rate is capped at $8,000 in combined purchases annually
Fuel Savings: $60.31 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas credit card for BP
BP Visa® Credit Card
30-day introductory offer when you open a new account and download the BPme app. That’s 25¢ off per gallon every time you fuel up with your BP Visa® Credit Card or BP Credit Card at participating bp and Amoco stations. Plus, an additional 5¢ off per gallon2 after loading your BP credit card into the BPme app and using it for fuel purchases. Sign up by downloading the BPme app right away.
Verdict: The most rewarding card for BP
Those who frequently visit BP gas stations should consider applying for the BP Visa Credit Card. Not only will you earn valuable cash back rewards on your gas purchases, but this card offers decent returns on groceries, too.
With the BP Visa® Credit Card, you’ll Get 10¢ off per gallon on fuel purchases at participating bp and Amoco stations. Earn 3% cash back on grocery store purchases. Earn 1% cash back on purchases made everywhere else Visa credit cards are accepted (excluding bp and Amoco fuel purchases).
Maximize rewards: You have the ability to get automatic savings at the pump at any participating BP or Amoco station or redeem your rewards for statement credits.
Fuel Savings: $49.79 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas credit card for Shell
Shell | Fuel Rewards Mastercard
Save 30¢/gal (up to 35 gallons*) on your first 5 Shell fuel purchases made by 6/30/2023. After that, save 10¢/gal every time you fill up. (New accounts only. Apply by 02/28/23.)
Verdict: Great rewards for Shell purchases
If you consistently fill up your tank at Shell gas stations, the Shell | Fuel Rewards Mastercard is certainly worth considering. This card comes with a stellar sign-up bonus that allows cardholders to Save 30¢/gal (up to 35 gallons*) on your first 5 Shell fuel purchases made by 6/30/2023. After that, save 10¢/gal every time you fill up. (New accounts only. Apply by 02/28/23.)
The regular earning rate for the Shell | Fuel Rewards® Mastercard® lets you Save 10 cents per gallon on up to 20 gallons of gas. Plus, earn 10% in Shell rebates on your first $1,200 in non-fuel purchases per year, 2% in Shell rebates on dining and grocery store purchases each year (up to $10,000 in combined spending per year) and 1% in Shell rebates on all other purchases.
Maximize rewards: You will see rebates automatically applied as a statement credit against Shell purchases made with your card in future billing cycles.
Fuel Savings: $61.65 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas credit card for business
Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard credit card
Earn 3% cash back on your choice of six categories including gas.
Verdict: Great rewards on business and gas spending
If you’re looking for the best gas card for small business, the Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard is an excellent choice. With this card you’ll Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (for the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter), 2% cash back on dining purchases (for the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter) and 1% cash back on all other purchases
You can change your category once each month, or keep the same category. Because travel is one of the category options, we argue this card is also the best travel rewards credit card for gas.
Maximize rewards: You can earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for their highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier. That means you could earn up to 5.25% on your selected choice category, 3.5% on dining, and unlimited 1.75% cash back on all other purchases. Redeem your cash back as a deposit into your Bank of America checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you. Cash rewards don’t expire.
Fuel Savings: $7.73 to $66.03 annually depending on your Preferred Rewards status (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas credit card for bad credit
Discover it Secured Credit Card
2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Verdict: Decent gas rewards and a stellar annual cashback match, especially for a secured card
The Discover it Secured Credit Card is one of the best gas cards for bad credit, as well as college students without a strong credit history. This is one of the best easy approval gas credit cards — you only need a credit score of Limited/Bad/Poor to be approved, along with a refundable security deposit. Your credit line will equal your deposit amount, starting at $200.
Plus, you may be able to get your deposit back after seven months, when Discover begins automatic monthly account reviews to see if you qualify to convert to a standard, ‘unsecured’ card. Discover also reports your credit history to all three major credit bureaus, unlike most debit cards or prepaid cards.
Maximize rewards: One of the best features of this gas card is the Cashback Match program: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match. If you use your card frequently but responsibly, this is a great card for earning rewards while building up your credit.
Fuel Savings: $20.00 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
How to choose a gas credit card
Choosing a gas credit card can be difficult. You’ll want to consider the following points when determining which card is best suited for your needs
Consider if you prefer to stick with one particular gas station brand or if you simply visit the cheapest station around. Note that choosing a credit card that’s affiliated with one particular gas station brand can limit your earning potential. You’re better off picking a general gas card so you can earn rewards whenever and wherever you decide to fill up.
Determine if you want to earn rewards with your gas card. If you do, we recommend sticking with a gas card that also earns in other categories. For example, if you pick a card that earns 2X points on gas and groceries, your card becomes exponentially more useful, as you’ll earn rewards not only on all your gas purchases, but in another major household spending category as well.
Examine whether or not you want a card that rewards you for purchases other than gas.
Think about what’s most important to you in a gas credit card and choose one that aligns with your preferences and needs. These should include things like cost of card ownership, value of benefits like branded incentives, purchase protections, sign-up bonuses and more.
Identify whether or not your credit score is high enough to be approved for a particular card, and how hard it is to get a particular gas card. If you’re concerned you won’t be accepted, consider one of our suggested easy approval gas credit cards instead. Be sure you can afford the annual fee (if any) and will be able to attain the sign-up bonus if one is offered. When used frequently and responsibly, gas credit cards can help improve your credit score, which is a valuable benefit if your score could use a boost.
Types of gas credit cards
Rewards cards
Cashback cards
Co-branded gas cards
Sign-up bonus cards
No annual fee cards
Many consumers simply want to save money on gas and visit the cheapest station around. A general rewards card that offers a bonus on gas purchases, like the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, is the best way to do just that. Keep in mind that some cards distinguish between U.S. gas stations and gas stations worldwide. So if you travel often and fuel up on gas in other countries, it is important to find a card that’ll give you rewards on those purchases.
*Some co-branded cards can only be used for gas purchases at that vendor.
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What are the benefits of having a gas credit card? ?
A gas credit card gives consumers bonus rewards (in the form of cash back or points) for their gas purchases and is essential to have if you regularly visit gas stations..
Pros
Discounts or rewards on gas purchases
More convenient to pay for gas with a credit card
Some cards offer sign-up bonuses, no annual fee, rewards in more spending categories and other perks
Can be helpful for building positive credit history when used responsibly
Cons
Some cards have a cap on earning rewards
Branded gas cards only reward for spending at specific gas stations
Gas cards tend to have high interest rates
Why get a gas credit card?
If you regularly fill up your tank with gasoline, it’s definitely worth getting a gas card. Why not earn cash back or rewards on the frequent gas purchases you’d be making anyway? A gas card rewards you for your regular spending. Plus, oftentimes gas credit cards also come with additional perks, like no annual fee, a sign-up bonus or rewards in other spending categories as well.
“The right gas credit card can save you real money at the pump. If you haven’t shopped around for one in awhile, it’s a great time to consider doing so, since card issuers are ramping up rewards offers on many, many types of cards in 2021. Or if it has been a while since you checked to see what your current cards offer for gas rewards, it’s a good time to do that as well. Much has changed in the past year or so with credit card offers, but you might not have noticed if you haven’t taken the time to look.” – Patrick Dehann, Gas Spending Expert
How to maximize a gas credit card
If you have a gas credit card, you’ll want to make sure you’re making the most of it and earning the most rewards possible with your card.
To start earning rewards, you’ll need to follow these steps to use your gas credit card:
Visit the pump
Swipe card
Fill your tank
Earn rewards
Using a gas credit card is ideal to reach a specific goal like saving money or earning travel rewards to take a vacation.
Here are our tips for maximizing your gas credit card:
Plan ahead: Research which gas credit card will benefit you most long before you hit the road
Be aware of reward limits: Some of the cards above have limits on how many rewards you can earn at gas stations. If you spend a significant amount of money on gas each year, it may be best to avoid those cards.
Sign up for a gas station rewards program: You can sign up for a gas station rewards program to help you double-dip your savings. The best gas rewards programs include big gas brands, like BP or Shell, and will help you earn discounts on gas purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best gas credit card?
There are several great gas credit cards, so the best gas credit card depends on how much you spend on gas.
Is a gas credit card worth it?
If you drive a lot for work, or if you’re a constant road-tripper, getting a gas credit card is crucial. Since gas purchases add up quickly, you’ll want a card that can offer high returns for these purchases. The best gas credit card will offer you returns on other daily purchases though, such as groceries or dining.
How do gas credit cards work?
If you own a credit card that rewards you for all gas purchases, you’ll earn rewards at any gas station you visit. Meanwhile, if you own a card such as the Shell Drive for Five Card, you’ll only earn rewards on Shell purchases and receive rewards either in the form of gas discounts or cash back.
Which gas station has the best rewards program?
Major gas brands like BP, Exxon, Sheetz and Shell offer a free rewards program,which gives members discounts or loyalty incentives. The best gas rewards program will depend on which gas station is available closest to you or offers the cheapest gas in your area.
What gas stations take credit cards?
Major gas station brands take credit cards, including Shell, Bucees, Conoco, Exxon, Mobil, Kum and Go, Sam’s Club, Costco, Walmart, BP, Kroger, H-E-B, Texaco, Chevron and more.
What is the best gas credit card for bad credit?
The Discover it Secured Credit Card is the best gas credit card for poor credit, since you earn a high amount of cash back on your purchases without an annual fee, and you can use the card other places outside of gas stations. You will earn 2% cash back, up to $1,000, each quarter. Secured cards are typically easiest to get approved for if you have poor credit, making the Discover it® Secured Credit Card a good match as well.
Does Costco gas take credit cards?
Yes, Costco gas takes credit cards. However, only Visa and Mastercard.
Do gas stations take credit cards?
Yes, most gas stations take credit cards. Some will give you a cheaper rate by paying cash.
Is it safe to use a credit card at the gas pump?
There is a risk that your card could be skimmed by thieves when you use it at the pump. Fortunately, most credit cards come with fraud alerts and $0 fraud liability that protect you from fraudulent charges in case your card number is stolen. You can further reduce your risk by watching out for signs of skimming or even paying for your gas in the store (though your card can also be skimmed there).
Can I buy gas with just my credit card number?
There are a number of mobile apps, such as the Shell app, that will allow you to pay without a physical card.
How hard is it to get a gas credit card?
Most of the cards on this list require excellent credit. However, you can find gas cards like the Discover it Secured Credit Card that are targeted to consumers with low credit scores.
Do gas cards help you build credit?
Many gas cards, including all the cards on this list, report to all three major credit bureaus, and so can help you build credit, provided you pay your card on time.
Do gas stations charge more for credit cards?
Some merchants may charge a processing fee for using a credit card. You should keep a close eye on your credit card statement for the terms “fee” or “surcharge.”
Is there a credit card for gas only?
Yes, many major gas station chains – including Chevron, BP, Exxon, Shell and Texaco – have co-branded cards that can only be used at their gas stations (along with regular credit cards).
Should I use my credit card for gas?
As long as you pay off your bill at the end of the month, credit cards can be a secure and rewarding way to pay for gas purchases.
What is the easiest gas credit card to get approved for?
The easiest gas credit card to get approved for will most likely be a secured credit card. The Discover it Secured Credit Card, for example, allows you to get approved with low or no credit history, though it requires a refundable security deposit when you apply.
Can I get a gas card with no credit?
Yes, you can get a gas card with no credit. We consider the Discover it® Secured Credit Card to be the best gas credit card for no credit.
What is the best gas card to improve credit?
The best gas card to improve credit will be a card with no annual fee, one that’s easy to be approved for and doesn’t charge huge fees. When used responsibly, this type of card can be majorly beneficial for your credit. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is the best gas credit card for fair credit and can help to improve your credit, too.
Who has the best gas card?
Though there are several great gas credit card deals available, we think the PNC Cash Rewards Visa, Discover IT, and Chase Freedom are some of the best fuel cards out there. It offers high rewards rates for gas spending, doesn’t restrict you to purchasing fuel from a single gas station brand and includes rewards in other spending categories — plus, it comes with some other useful perks, too.
Does ARCO have a gas credit card?
Yes, ARCO has two branded gas credit cards available. The ARCO credit cards are the ARCO Business Solutions Fuel Card and the ARCO Business Solutions Mastercard®.
Does Marathon have a gas card?
Yes. Marathon has two branded gas cards available, the Marathon Universal Card and Marathon Fleet Card.
Does Speedway have gas cards?
Yes, Speedway has a number of gas cards available. Speedway credit cards include the Speedy Rewards® Mastercard® and Speedway SuperFleet Mastercard®.
Best for hotels: Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card
Best for BP: BP Visa Credit Card
Best for Shell: Shell | Fuel Rewards Mastercard
Best for business: Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard
Best for bad credit: Discover it Secured Credit Card
Methodology
What is the best gas credit card?
RewardsCads’s pick for the best gas card is the Discover IT Card for the first year.
While the best gas credit card will depend on your personal driving habits and preferences, This Card comes with a long intro APR offer and $0 annual fee. For consumers looking for a valuable gas credit card this is our favorite option.
How we chose the best gas credit cards
We are constantly reviewing hundreds of credit cards across the United States in order to compile a list of the best gas credit cards available in 2022. Our recommendations are based on a number of factors — including the rewards value in gas and additional spending categories, gas savings, cost of ownership and value of benefits such as branded incentives, purchase protections, sign-up bonuses and more. Our choices are not influenced by our advertisers.
Fuel Savings:
Our rates have been calculated based on the following assumptions:
IHG just formed a partnership with the Fuel Rewards program which means you get to save money on gas! If you are not familiar with IHG Hotels they own Kimpton, Holiday Inn. Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, and more. With this program, IHG Rewards Club members at any level get to save money every time they fill their tank at participating Shell gas stations. You can sign up here for a Fuel Rewards account here which is a free account. You already get 3 cents a gallon savings on your Fuel Rewards program so this extra 5+ cents could be 8+ cents a gallon on fuel.
The fuel savings will depend on your status with IHG:
5 cents per gallon everyday savings for Club and Gold Elite members
6 cents per gallon everyday savings for Platinum Elite members (see below on how to get automatic Platinum status!)
7 cents per gallon everyday savings for Spire Elite
Automatic Platinum Status with IHG The IHG Rewards credit card gives you automatic Platinum status so you get 6 cents per gallon just by owning this credit card from Chase. The annual fee for the card is cheap because you get a FREE hotel night each year once you pay the fee. You basically pay a small annual fee cheaper than a free hotel room then get a free hotel stay and 6 cents a gallon off Gas! This sounds like too good of a deal and it is so you better take advantage of it while it lasts!
The program is free to join and you can start saving money on your gas purchases immediately with a bonus offer of 25 cents a gallon when you sign up here. Another tip on saving money at Shell gas stations is to look out for T-Mobile Tuesday offers here each week where they give away 25 cents a gallon off from time to time.
Chase Freedom normally tells us the 5x points category way ahead of the third quarter but just like everything this year, it had to be done differently. It was kept a secret until this week where it was revealed that it will be what everyone wants the most… Gas cash-back!
Between July 1 and September 30, the Chase Freedom will offer 5x points on Lyft, Walgreens, and gas stations. The extra cash back is maxed out at up to a $1,500 spend or $75 in rewards. That’s quite a bit when it comes to saving at the pricey pump right now at almost $3 a gallon.
You may take it a step further and use Shell with a bigger bonus when you pay with Chase Pay. If you are not a fan of Shell gas stations then just make sure it’s not a warehouse club or grocery store where you fill up to get the 5%. It has to be an actual gas station retailer.
Another favorite on the list is Lyft. We normally take Uber because of the ShopYourWay giving $2 cash back on each ride but Lyft gives Delta Skymiles and Jetblue points so with the 5% cash back we will start using Lyft again. If you are new to the ride-sharing company here are some promos to sign-up with Lyft.
Walgreens is another favorite. We get so many things at Walgreens when we are in New York City, Denver, and Dallas. Walgreens normally has the cheapest RedBull and it makes a great drink mixer. Registration for this category will open on June 15.
Discover IT Card is normally offering the exact same category at five percent cash back but this time they are doing Restaurants. Take out both cards for the Summer road trip and use the Discover IT for dining and to gas up the car use the Chase Freedom.
$200 Bonus for New Accounts
If you’re new to the Chase Freedom Card you can get a $200 Bonus by applying here. You’ll get a $150 bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.
Shell Fuel Rewards offers $0.35 Off per Gallon on your next Fill-up when you First use Chase Pay and fill-up at least 5-Gallons to activate the offer (follow the instructions below).
Just add your Shell Fuel Rewards loyalty card to your Chase Pay app, then fill-up at least 5 gallons, then you’ll get $.35 off per gallon on your second fill-up. The maximum benefit from this deal is $7 if you fill-up a full 20 gallons. Some people use Shell with Fuel Rewards regularly for the $.15 grocery bonus or Giant/SS/Kroger/Martins earnings.
Furthermore, you can get $.05 off per gallon with Gold status for new sign-ups or as a Chase Freedom and Sapphire cardholder instantly. Chase Freedom Card also has a 5% back on gas and Chase Pay purchases this quarter. You can also stack this offer with T-mobile Tuesdays.
Instructions:
Sign-up for Fuel Rewards from Shell if you have not already.
Download the Chase Pay App and Log in to your Chase Account
From the home screen, tap the “Wallet” icon and select the “Loyalty cards” tab
Now press “+”, then select Shell from the merchant list.
Enter your Shell Fuel Reward loyalty card number or Alt ID
Tap the “Add card” button – This will link your Fuel Reward Account with Chase Pay
Now you may start using the Chase Pay app at a participating Shell Station.
Open the Chase Pay App and tap the “Pay” button, then tap “At the pump.”
Enter the pump number and approve the transaction.
Enter your unique code at the pump and start fueling up.
Must make an initial fill-up of at least 5-Gallons using Chase Pay to activate the offer
You will then receive a $0.35 off per gallon offer to use on your next fill-up w/ Chase Pay
BP and United Airlines are offering BP Driver Rewards and United MileagePlus members the option of earning and using miles on fuel purchases at participating BP U.S. retail locations. You must register for this program to earn or redeem the miles.
You can Earn 200 bonus award miles after joining and making your first fuel purchase with a linked debit or credit card. Members can multiply their earnings through the following options:
One award mile for every gallon of fuel purchased
Two award miles for every gallon of fuel purchased with a linked debit or credit card
Three award miles for every gallon of premium-grade fuel purchased with a linked debit or credit card
In addition, BP Driver Rewards and MileagePlus members will be able to use 60 MileagePlus award miles per gallon for $0.50 off per gallon on a maximum of 20 gallons (for a maximum of $10 off) per fuel purchase. To be eligible to use miles at participating BP stations, you must have an eligible form of payment linked to your Driver Rewards account and have at least 1,200 miles in your MileagePlus account at the time of purchase.
We tried to sign-up for the program and had no problems with the driver rewards but then tried to connect United Airlines and it kept giving us errors telling me to call an 800 number. I don’t have enough BP stations for the need to do that but if I plan on a big road trip this summer I will call and make sure it’s connected first to earn the miles on gas.
Chase Freedom normally tells us the 5x points category way ahead of the third quarter but just like everything this year, it had to be done differently. It was kept a secret until this week where it was revealed that it will be what everyone wants the most… Gas cash-back!
BP and United Airlines are offering BP Driver Rewards and United MileagePlus members the option of earning and using miles on fuel purchases at participating BP U.S. retail locations. You must register for this program to earn or redeem the miles.