Gas prices may not be something you can control—but how you manage your budget around them is. Even if you’re not earning cashback directly at the pump, you can still reduce fuel costs by saving in other parts of your routine, like groceries and everyday shopping. Apps like Ibotta and Rakuten make this easy, offering cashback on purchases you’re already making. When used strategically, those savings can help offset what you spend at the pump.

Here’s how to use Ibotta and Rakuten to indirectly lower your fuel costs—without adding stress or extra steps to your week.

Use Ibotta to Save on Groceries and Household Essentials

Ibotta gives cashback on everyday grocery items, pharmacy purchases, and household goods. It partners with major stores like Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and Target. Instead of clipping coupons, you simply activate offers in the app before shopping, then scan your receipt or link your store loyalty account for automatic credit.

How this frees up your fuel budget:

• Weekly grocery trips can yield $5–$15 in cashback
• Cashback can be transferred to your bank account, PayPal, or used for gift cards
• By applying those savings toward your monthly fuel spending, you offset rising gas prices without changing where you shop

You can also stack Ibotta earnings with store fuel rewards, like Safeway’s program that lets you redeem grocery points at Chevron or Texaco stations, helping you save on both sides of the equation.

Use Rakuten for Online Shopping and Bulk Purchases

Rakuten is best known for cashback on online purchases. It works with thousands of retailers—from big-box stores to specialty shops—and covers categories like auto supplies, groceries, home improvement, and even travel.

Why Rakuten matters for fuel budgeting:

• Install the browser extension or use the mobile app to activate cashback automatically
• Shop for car care, home goods, or personal items and earn a percentage back
• Use those rewards to supplement your fuel budget or buy gas station gift cards

Rakuten pays out quarterly via PayPal or check, so you can treat it as a seasonal fuel offset—especially useful during summer travel or holiday shopping spikes.

Suggested Routine for Max Rewards in Minimal Time

If you’re short on time, the key is to build a simple, repeatable habit. Here’s a high-efficiency routine:

Weekly

• Open Ibotta, activate offers for items already on your grocery list
• Shop at your usual store (especially Kroger, Safeway, or Walmart)
• Scan your receipt or let Ibotta sync via loyalty account
• Redeem rewards every few weeks and apply to fuel purchases

Monthly

• Use Rakuten for online purchases like cleaning supplies, pantry staples, or car maintenance items
• Let cashback build up in your account
• Every quarter, cash out and set aside the total for your next gas fill-up or road trip

This routine keeps your effort low—less than five minutes a week—while still helping you chip away at fuel costs over time.

Final Thoughts

Even if you’re not saving directly at the pump, cashback from Ibotta and Rakuten gives you real, usable money that can be redirected to your fuel budget. It’s a smart, passive way to soften the impact of gas prices without overhauling your routine.

Start by installing both apps, activating offers for your next grocery run, and letting those rewards add up—then use them where they matter most: your wallet at the pump.