10 Costco Gas Station Hacks That Could Save You Hundreds Every Year

A Costco membership offers value beyond the warehouse walls. Not only do you save money on everyday essentials, gifts, and jewelry, but you also save significant amounts on fuel. According to AAA, the average price per gallon across the nation is $3.59, and that's likely to continue rising.

Luckily, with your $65 annual membership, you could save hundreds of dollars by fueling your vehicle at Costco instead of your local gas station.

To help you maximize these benefits, here are some quick hacks you can use today to set aside more money for tomorrow.

Check multiple Costcos in your area for the best deal

The U.S. Energy Information Administration found that factors, including supply distance and retail competition, cause gas prices to fluctuate even within the same neighborhoods. 

Download the Costco app to check the day's fuel prices. Then, compare the prices with those from other Costco gas stations. This is the most effective way to secure the greatest savings.

Earn cash back with the company's credit card

If you're a Costco credit cardholder, there's an added perk to filling up at Costco gas stations. Not only can you enjoy competitive fuel prices, but you'll also earn cash back on your fuel purchases, just like you do inside the warehouse.

It's a convenient way to get more value every time you fill your tank.

Check fuel prices before you pump

Costco is typically more affordable than most stores, and its gas prices tend to be lower than those at most fuel stations. However, it's always wise to check local gas prices with Waze or GasBuddy before heading to your local Costco.

This way, you can ensure you're getting the best deal and saving the most.

Fill up on Mondays or Tuesdays

Filling up at Costco on the weekend is like heading to Best Buy during Black Friday. The lines are long, pumps are more likely to run out of gas, and there are lots of aggressive people in a hurry. 

Fortunately, Monday and Tuesday mornings are usually much quieter, and there's an added benefit. Filling up on those days is generally cheaper.

Use Costco as your premium fuel supplier and save hundreds

Costco's premium gas is conveniently priced anywhere between 20 and 40 cents a gallon more than regular. Traditional gas stations may price premium as high as 60 cents to a dollar more than regular.

If you drive frequently and pump your premium gas at Costco, you can save anywhere from $300 to $500 per year.

Bring gas cans on your next trip to refuel

Avoid making a special trip to Costco to fuel up if it's not in the neighborhood. The amount of gas you'll spend making a round trip could negate your savings. 

If you don't have a local Costco, bring gas cans along with you on your next Costco trip and fill them to fully benefit from these savings.

Use Costco fuel on road trips

Before heading out on your next road trip, check Costco's website for locations along your route. Fueling at Costco stations can save you the hassle of finding convenient fueling stops and help you avoid paying inflated highway gas prices. 

This means more savings for your vacation. Not to mention, you can grab a hot dog or other snacks from the food court when you swing by.

Fuel up using a Shop Card

If you don't shop at Costco regularly or need large quantities of your favorite products, a membership might not be worth it. Luckily, you can still access the same affordable fuel at Costco stations without a membership by using a Costco Shop Card.

Any Costco member can purchase this card on your behalf, loading it with the amount you need. Since all Costco locations accept it, you can refuel at any nearby station.

Fuel all your vehicles at Costco

If you have multiple vehicles, consider having a family member drive your second vehicle to the pump to maximize your savings. They can pay using your membership card, or you can provide them with an additional card to enhance the benefits. 

This approach ensures both vehicles enjoy the same affordable, high-quality fuel.

Top up your fuel when you can

Instead of waiting for your fuel indicator to flash empty, top off your gas whenever you're near a Costco. This keeps your tank full and locks in lower prices as they pop up. Not to mention, paying with a rewards card each time can really rack up the cash back rewards.

Bottom line

One of the smartest car owner money moves is to purchase Costco fuel. Using these tips can save you time and money while also prolonging the life of your vehicle. Costco supplies Top Tier gas, which contains five times the detergents required, helping your engine stay cleaner and maximizing your fuel efficiency.

Still on the fence? Use Costco's online Get Rewards calculator to see how much you could save. If you haven't already, this might encourage you to apply for the Costco card and start fueling up regularly.