If you’re only using one method to save on fuel, you’re leaving money on the table. Today’s most cost-conscious drivers are stacking multiple savings strategies—from loyalty programs to digital gift cards—to get the best deal possible every time they fill up. This blog breaks down how to combine these tools effectively and unlock real fuel savings.

Step 1: Start with a loyalty program

Most major fuel stations offer rewards programs that give cents off per gallon after qualifying purchases. These programs are free to join and easy to use:

• Shell Fuel Rewards gives members discounts based on everyday spending.
  
• Kroger Fuel Points let you earn points by grocery shopping, which you can redeem at Kroger Fuel Centers or participating Shell stations.

These programs usually work independently of your payment method, which means you can pair them with other savings tools.

Step 2: Use gas price comparison apps

Before heading to the pump, use a fuel price tracking app to locate the cheapest station near you. Apps like GasBuddy and Waze offer real-time gas price updates submitted by users. Even a difference of $0.10 per gallon adds up quickly—especially for high-mileage drivers or small business fleets.

Step 3: Add a cashback layer with apps and cards

This is where most of the savings magic happens. Cashback apps and credit cards can offer additional rewards when used strategically. For example:

• Fluz allows you to earn cashback with a BP virtual card or get rewards with a Shell virtual card by buying a gift card at the exact moment you’re about to fill up.
  
• Use a credit card that rewards digital purchases when buying gift cards. Just confirm with your card issuer whether gift card purchases are eligible for cashback.
  
• Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Upside offer rebates or rewards for fuel-related purchases when linked to your card or when uploading receipts.
  

These layers can often be combined. For instance, a driver might buy a Shell gift card through Fluz (earning cashback), use it at a discounted station found on GasBuddy, and swipe their Fuel Rewards number to get an additional per-gallon discount.

Step 4: Pay attention to timing and promotions

Some platforms offer boosted cashback rates during holidays, weekends, or special promotions. Keeping an eye on these limited-time deals can further increase your savings. If you’re already planning to fill up, a 5% boost on a gift card purchase can easily make a difference.

Stacking made simple

Here’s a real-world scenario:

1. Open your fuel price app and find the cheapest nearby Shell station.
   
2. Open Fluz and buy a Shell virtual card with cashback for the exact amount you’ll spend.
   
3. At the pump, enter your Shell Fuel Rewards number and pay using the digital gift card.
   
4. Watch the price per gallon drop and your cashback roll in—on the spot.
   

By combining loyalty points, competitive pricing, and gift card cashback, you’re essentially building a custom discount system for every fill-up.

Conclusion: Stop choosing just one savings method

Stacking rewards doesn’t require extra time—just a little preparation. Once set up, it becomes second nature. With fuel prices still fluctuating and personal budgets stretched thin, combining loyalty programs, gift cards, and cashback apps is a practical, high-impact way to take control of your fuel costs.

To start, explore options like Fluz, which makes it easy to earn cashback with a BP virtual card or get rewards with a Shell virtual card and stack those savings with the tools you’re already using.