If you are looking to save money at the pump, timing is everything. A new study from GasBuddy has found that simply changing which day you refuel can lead to significant savings.
The Best Day to Buy Gas
For most of the United States, Sunday is the cheapest day to buy gasoline. In fact, Sunday is the most affordable day in 41 different states.
In most areas, gas prices slowly rise throughout the work week and tend to drop over the weekend. By waiting until Sunday to fill your tank, you can find a "window of savings" before prices start climbing again on Monday.
Other state-specific "best days" include:
- Monday: Best in Alaska, Delaware, Indiana, and Ohio.
- Saturday: Best in Kansas, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Wyoming.
- Tuesday: Best in Montana.
The Worst Days to Buy Gas
If you want to avoid overpaying, stay away from the gas station during the middle of the week. Wednesday is the most expensive day to buy gas in 23 states, followed closely by Tuesday in 17 other states.
How Much Can You Save?
The amount you save depends on where you live and what you drive. On average, you can save about 9 cents per gallon by picking the right day, but in some states, the difference can be as high as 45 cents per gallon.
- Small/Mid-size cars (14-gallon tank): You could save about $6.30 per fill-up.
- Large trucks/SUVs (22-gallon tank): You could save nearly $10 per fill-up.
For people who drive frequently, these savings can add up to hundreds of dollars over the course of a year.
Tips for Lowering Your Fuel Costs
To keep more money in your pocket, experts suggest following these simple rules:
- Avoid the Mid-Week Rush: Try not to buy gas on Tuesdays or Wednesdays when prices are usually at their peak.
- Plan for the Weekend: Aim to fill up on Sunday or early Monday morning.
- Be Patient: If you see a sudden jump in gas prices, try to wait five to seven days before filling up. Prices often "reset" or drop slightly after a sharp spike.
- Check Your State: While Sunday is the national winner, keep in mind that states like Florida, Texas, and Michigan have more frequent "price cycles," meaning prices move up and down more predictably.
Current Market Trends
Currently, the national average for gas is around $2.92 per gallon. While prices vary wildly—from as low as $2.22 in Oklahoma to as high as $4.57 in California—drivers are generally seeing lower prices now than they were two years ago.
By paying attention to the calendar, you can make those prices even lower.
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