Regular gasoline prices hovered at $4.02 per gallon in Massachusetts on Thursday, forcing drivers to weigh new strategies to cut fuel costs.
Finding a way to save on gas can be tough if you cannot cut back on driving, but some strategies may help you fuel up for a little bit less, WCVB reported. Gas prices are hovering near all-time highs across the region.
Data from AAA showed that regular fuel cost slightly more than $4.02 a gallon across the Bay State on Thursday. If you are feeling the high costs, there are some ways to cut expenses.
- Avoid service plazas, where prices can be inflated by at least 50 cents.
- Shop along competitive corridors and use discount fuel options like BJ’s and Costco.
- Use rewards credit cards offering cash back, provided balances are paid in full monthly.
Drivers can immediately cut costs by bypassing major highway rest stops. In Newton, we found the price inflated by at least 50 cents compared to what you will find right off the highway, WCVB reported.
To illustrate, rates sit lower than the Massachusetts mean along Route 1 in Norwood due to the high density of fueling stations situated on the automile. Discount gas options, like BJ’s and Costco, can also drive prices lower in the area.
Rack up the rewards when paying at the pump. As reported by WCVB, utilizing specific cash-back credit cards can serve as an effective method to accumulate earnings during periods of elevated costs.
A search on NerdWallet highlighted a Bank of America product providing a 6 percent cash-back rate throughout year one. Alternatively, the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express offers 3 percent cash back on gas, groceries and retail purchases.
One important caveat regarding that final choice: ensure that your credit card balances are settled in full each and every month. If you don’t, the interest will cost you more than the potential savings.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
