Timing your fuel purchases isn’t just smart—it’s proven to save you money. Gas prices can fluctuate by as much as 10 to 25 cents per gallon throughout the week, and drivers who plan ahead often save more than those who fill up on impulse. With nationwide data from fuel price trackers and expert research, we now know when you’re most likely to get the best deal at the pump.
Here’s what the numbers say about the best times to buy gas—and how to plan your fill-ups for maximum savings.
Early in the Week = Lower Prices
Multiple studies, including data from GasBuddy, consistently show that Monday and Tuesday are the best days to fill up. These early-week periods often offer the lowest average prices before stations raise rates in anticipation of weekend demand.
By contrast, Thursday through Saturday tend to be the most expensive, especially around holidays or long weekends when travel spikes.
Tip: Try to make Monday morning your go-to refuel time. Even a small reduction in price adds up over time.
Fill Up in the Morning or Late Evening
Gas prices themselves don’t usually change during the day, but fuel quality and engine efficiency can be affected by temperature. When it’s hot, gasoline evaporates more quickly, especially if your tank is low or the gas cap is loose. That means early morning or late evening fill-ups help you get slightly more energy-dense fuel—and reduce vapor loss.
While the savings here are minor, they support better fuel economy in the long run.
Avoid Filling Up on Holidays and Travel Weekends
Stations typically raise prices ahead of major holidays, including:
- Memorial Day
- Fourth of July
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving
During these times, demand surges and stations know drivers will pay a premium. Unless absolutely necessary, it’s better to fill up several days in advance or immediately after the peak.
Use a Price Monitoring App to Track Trends
Apps like GasBuddy, AAA Gas Prices, and Waze offer real-time and historical data that can help you spot local pricing patterns. These tools let you:
- View current prices by location
- Set alerts for price drops
- Plan routes with cheaper stations along the way
Combine Smart Timing With Cashback Savings
Maximizing timing is one piece of the puzzle—but how you pay also matters. With Fluz, you can earn cashback with a BP gift card or get rewards with a Shell gift card instantly by purchasing the exact amount needed for your fill-up.
This strategy stacks with your gas station loyalty programs and allows you to double down on savings—both from pricing timing and instant cashback rewards.
