Gas prices have been on the rise, mirroring rises in oil prices. Additionally, the imminent arrival of the summer travel season is also encouraging higher gas prices. In my little corner of the U.S., gas prices are almost to $4 a gallon. You can save money on gas by taking better care of your car, modifying your driving habits and even joining rewards programs. And you can get plenty of help in the palm of your hand. Here are 9 of the top apps to help you save money on gas:
photo credit: slworking2
Finding the Lowest Gas Prices
One of the most straightforward ways to save money on gas is to find the lowest prices. The following apps can help you do find the best prices at the pump:
- Local Gas Prices: You can find the closest local gas prices with this app. Offers a small map that shows your location and the gas station. Before you head to work or to run errands, get an idea of where to stop for gas. Available for the iPhone. Cost: Free
- iGasUp: Credit card transactions helps this app provide real-time pricing from more than 100,000 gas stations around the country. Frequently updated and good for the latest gas prices. The disclaimer says that not all prices are current, but they are pretty accurate. Available for iPhone. Cost: $0.99
- Cheap Gas!: The coolest feature on this app is its augmented reality feature. It shows you local features, and overlays the name of the gas station, distance to the gas station, and price of the gas. A fun way to find the best gas prices. Available for iPhone. Cost: Free
- Fuel Finder: Displays gas prices in the U.S. and Canada. Refreshes prices regularly, and provides a wide array of options. One of the few apps specifically designed for use in Canada and the U.S., so it’s great for border jumpers. Available for iPhone. Cost: $2.99
- TripTik: Look for the lowest gas prices — wherever you are. TripTik is available from AAA, so you know it’s legit. The app is designed so that you can map out route, and it will help direct you to the best prices along your path. Can also direct you to AAA approved hotels along the way. Perfect for road trips. Available for Android. Cost: Free
- GasBuddy: This is considered one of the best gas prices apps on the market. Based on the popular GasBuddy web app (you can find the best prices even if you don’t have a fancy phone), you can get this app for iPhone, Android and Windows 7 smartphones. GasBuddy will display your options as a list, or on a map. Cost: Free
Route Planning: Save Gas with Increased Efficiency
Another way to save money on gas is to plan your routes efficiently. Part of saving money is using your resources wisely. You can use the following apps to map out the most fuel-efficient route, saving you money in gas:
- Route4me: You can save multiple addresses per route and this application will help you navigate your way through town in a way that saves you money and time. Perfect for the days when you have errands to run before or after work. Available for iPhone. Cost: Free
- Waze: You can get real-time traffic information when you use Waze, which takes advantage of user-generated information. Find alternative routes, and figure out the best way to run your errands or go on your trip. Available for BlackBerry, iPhone, Android and Windows Mobile. Cost: Free
- Carticipate: Save money on your commute when you make use of Carticipate. This car pool app helps you match up with others who might be going the same way. Pool your resources, and everyone saves. Available for iPhone and on Facebook. Cost: Free
Miranda is freelance journalist. She specializes in topics related to money, especially personal finance, small business, and investing. You can read more of my writing at Planting Money Seeds.