If you’re commuting regularly, the right combination of apps can save you both time and money—two things drivers never seem to have enough of. From cashback rewards to smarter routing and real-time gas price comparisons, these tools make everyday driving more efficient and budget-friendly. Whether you’re looking to cut fuel costs or just avoid traffic, these are the top five fuel apps every commuter should have on their phone from day one.
- Fluz – Instant Cashback at the Pump
Fluz is one of the easiest ways to earn instant cashback on fuel. Instead of paying with your debit or credit card, you use the app to buy a digital gift card for your preferred gas station—then earn cashback immediately.
Fluz supports major fuel brands including Chevron, Shell, Texaco, and Speedway. It’s a frictionless way to save every time you fill up.
Best for: Drivers who want predictable savings and prefer going to the same station regularly.
Bonus tip: Combine Fluz with loyalty programs like Shell Fuel Rewards or Safeway fuel points to stack discounts and cashback in a single transaction.
- GasBuddy – Real-Time Gas Price Comparison
GasBuddy has long been the go-to app for comparing local fuel prices. It uses community-reported data to show the cheapest gas stations near you, along with fuel type filters and distance options.
Best for: Drivers who want to actively hunt down the lowest prices, especially in unfamiliar areas.
Bonus tip: Use GasBuddy’s trip cost calculator to estimate fuel expenses before long commutes or weekend getaways.
- Upside – Cashback Offers Based on Your Location
Upside helps you earn cashback at participating gas stations by showing location-specific offers. Just claim the deal, fill up, and upload your receipt—or use a linked card when available.
Best for: Commuters who don’t always use the same gas station and want on-the-go savings that adapt to their location.
Bonus tip: When used with Fluz, you can stack rewards by paying with a Fluz gift card and then uploading the receipt to Upside.
- Waze – Avoid Traffic and Time-Wasting Detours
Waze is a GPS app that goes beyond navigation. It uses real-time driver data to reroute you around traffic jams, road closures, construction zones, and other delays. The app even shows you nearby gas stations along your route, including current fuel prices.
Best for: Commuters who value time over distance and want to minimize idle time and stop-and-go fuel burn.
Bonus tip: Set a planned departure time and let Waze suggest the best window to avoid traffic.
- Google Maps – Smart Routing with Integrated Fuel Stops
Google Maps is an essential navigation tool with built-in traffic tracking, ETAs, and turn-by-turn directions. For fuel efficiency, Google Maps also allows you to choose the most fuel-efficient route based on terrain and traffic.
Best for: Drivers who want a reliable all-in-one navigator that integrates seamlessly with calendar events and voice commands.
Bonus tip: Use Google Maps to plan stops at gas stations shown to have lower prices, which often align with GasBuddy data.
