Fuel smarter: simple tips to save at the pump
Fuel prices might be rising, but staying smart at the pump doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few simple strategies, you can stretch every litre further and keep more money in your pocket. From tracking prices to using discounts and keeping your car in top shape, small changes can add up to noticeable savings.
Here’s how to make the most of your fuel.
- Keep an Eye on Prices with an App
Thanks to real-time pricing updates from petrol stations, fuel apps make it easy to find the best deal near you. Checking prices before you head out ensures you’re never paying more than you need.
Popular options include:
- Petrol Spy – Compare local fuel prices and spot the cheapest options nearby.
- FuelCheck – The official government app for up-to-date fuel costs in your area.
Even a small difference per litre can add up over a few weeks, so having this information at your fingertips is a smart move.
- Time Your Fill-Ups Using ACCC Insights
Petrol prices usually follow predictable cycles. The ACCC tracks these patterns across states, giving you a handy guide to when prices are likely to rise or fall.
- Use ACCC petrol cycle insights – Check how prices fluctuate in your state so you can plan your next fill-up.
- Time your fill-ups – In Victoria, prices follow a multi-week cycle. Observing these trends can help you spot the best days to fill up and avoid paying more than necessary.
A little planning can make a noticeable difference over time.
- Stack Your Rewards and Discounts
Combining small discounts can save you 8–12¢ per litre, and that adds up quickly. Some easy ways to maximise savings include:
- Supermarket vouchers – Coles or Woolworths fuel discounts (around 4¢/L) are worth checking before you pay.
- Membership perks – Insurance providers like NRMA or RACV can offer 4–5¢/L off at Ampol.
- 7‑Eleven Fuel Lock – Lock in a low price you find elsewhere for up to 7 days using the 7‑Eleven app. If prices rise tomorrow, you still pay the lower rate.
A few minutes of planning can easily save you several dollars each week.
- Keep Your Car Fuel-Efficient
A well-maintained car can make a big difference to fuel costs. Paying attention to these factors can help you get the most out of every litre:
- Weight and drag – Extra load or roof racks increase resistance, which lowers efficiency. Lightening your load helps your car go further on less fuel.
- A/C vs windows – Using air conditioning burns more fuel than rolling down the windows, especially at lower speeds.
- Tyre pressure – Under-inflated tyres make your engine work harder. Keeping them properly inflated helps your car run efficiently.
Rising fuel prices don’t have to be a headache. By checking prices, timing your fill-ups, combining discounts, and keeping your car in shape, you can make every litre go further. A few simple habits can save you money, and make your next trip to the pump a little less stressful.
