How to gas up at the pump a little cheaper
By Gary Harper
Published: Sep. 12, 2025 at 3:52 PM MST|Updated: 4 hours ago
PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Gas prices are not the worst we’ve seen and they’re certainly not keeping consumers away from the pump. But they did spike.
In fact, in Arizona, the current average price is $3.55 per gallon, according to AAA. Last month, you only paid $3.17 a gallon. That means you’re now paying 38 cents more.
However, Kimberly Palmer of NerdWallet tells On Your Side there are ways to shave costs. “Well, the first thing to consider is use a gas app that helps you compare prices across local gas stations near you,” she said.
Free gas Apps like GasBuddy or Gas Guru are a great way to keep you from overpaying at the pump.
Another tip is to get unnecessary items out of your car. “We are using more gas than we need to when we’re driving a heavier car. So if you can unload that sports equipment or whatever it is you’re carrying around that can also just help stretch your gas tank further,” Palmer said.
Warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club are almost always around 20 cents cheaper than other gas stations. Yes, there is a membership fee.
But all your gas savings could be paid off that membership in as little as three months. “If you have two cars or if you’re just someone that drives a lot, like maybe you have to drive for your job. So you’re on the road quite a bit each week. Then you’re filling up so often that you want to get those savings,” Palmer said.
And finally, look for loyalty programs. Circle K, along with some other convenience stores, offers them and so do grocery stores like Safeway or Fry’s.
“Such a good idea,” Palmer said. “Opting into a gas loyalty program and you are giving up some of your personal information, like you have to give your name and contact information. But what you’re getting is extra discounts and rewards.”
Another tip is do not fill up your car with premium unless your car manufacturer requires it. So many people simply pay more for premium gas because they think it’s better for performance and fuel economy. That’s not true and you’re simply throwing money away.
See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it.
Do you have a photo or video of a breaking news story? Send it to us here with a brief description.
Copyright 2025 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.
