Tips to save on gas over Memorial Day weekend as fuel prices soar: Loyalty programs, credit card perks and apps
With gas prices climbing to their highest level in four years amid the ongoing war with Iran, drivers are feeling the pinch at the pump nationwide.
The national average price for a gallon of gas as of May 21 stands at approximately $4.56, according to AAA and GasBuddy, marking a sharp increase from weeks prior and putting renewed strain on household budgets.
Despite the high price of gas, AAA predicts the holiday weekend will see 39.1 million people traveling by car.
For those choosing to hit the road, there are a few ways to stretch dollars while filling up, such as stacking rewards from loyalty programs, memberships, credit cards and apps.
ABC News transportation correspondent Gio Benitez shared a few simple strategies, starting with taking advantage of any gas station loyalty programs.
Shell, for example, offers new members 30 cents off per gallon on their third fill-up. Drivers who use the program can also save more over time, with Shell's Platinum members receiving up to 10 cents off per gallon.
Other major gas brands offer smaller, but consistent savings.
At BP and Amoco, drivers can save 5 cents per gallon on every fill-up. Exxon customers earn rewards that can be used on future purchases, receiving 3 cents per gallon on regular gas and 6 cents per gallon on premium, according to Exxon's rewards program.
Drivers can also save through existing memberships at other retailers.
Walmart+ members can save 10 cents per gallon at more than 13,000 gas stations nationwide, including Exxon, Mobil, Walmart and Murphy stations, according to Walmart.
Amazon Prime members can save 10 cents per gallon at participating BP and Amoco stations. Through the end of May, that discount increases to 20 cents per gallon on Fridays when accounts are linked through Earnify, according to Amazon.
Warehouse clubs can also provide some relief for drivers.
Costco, Sam's Club and BJ's operate their own gas stations at select locations and typically charge less per gallon, though a paid membership is required. And using a store-branded credit card at those stations can sometimes lead to even more savings.
Supermarket chains also offer fuel rewards tied to grocery spending. Kroger shoppers earn one fuel point for every dollar spent, with 100 points equaling 10 cents off per gallon, according to the company's Fuel Points Program.
Safeway and Stop & Shop both offer similar programs that allow customers to convert grocery points into gas discounts.
In addition to loyalty programs, some credit cards offer immediate savings or rewards on gas purchases.
The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card offers five times points on gas purchases, while the PNC Cash Rewards Visa Card provides 4% cash back at gas stations, both with no annual fee. Drivers should always check what cards they already carry, as many offer gas-related perks or benefits that could be going unused.
Finally, there are several apps to help drivers cut costs by locating the cheapest fuel nearby.
Earnify and Upside offer cash back on gas purchases, while GasBuddy and AAA can help drivers locate the lowest prices in their area.
This story was originally published on April 29, 2026.
