You can’t control what gas costs, but you can control what you pay for it. Between cheaper stations, loyalty points and a few driving habits, it’s realistic to knock several cents off every litre, which adds up fast if you commute.
1. Compare prices before you fill up
Gas prices can vary by several cents a litre between stations in the same neighbourhood. Price-comparison apps such as GasBuddy show current prices near you, reported by other drivers. Check before you head out, especially on longer drives where prices change from town to town.
2. Fill up at Costco if you’re a member
Costco gas is for members only and is usually among the cheapest in the area. If there’s a Costco station on your route, it can be the single biggest saving available, though the line-ups can be long at busy times. Our Costco Canada guide covers whether the membership pays off.
3. Collect gas station loyalty points
Almost every major gas brand has a loyalty program. Pick the one for the station you use most and scan every time:
| Station | Program | What you earn |
|---|---|---|
| Esso (and Mobil) | PC Optimum | 10 points per litre (worth 1¢/L); redeem at Esso for 10¢/L off |
| Petro-Canada | Petro-Points | 10 points per litre, or 12 if you link Triangle Rewards |
| Canadian Tire Gas+ | Triangle Rewards | CT Money per litre, with higher rates for Triangle credit cards and during promotions |
| Shell | Scene+ (replacing Air Miles) | Scene+ points on fuel |
See our PC Optimum and Triangle Rewards guides for how to get the most from each.
4. Pay with the right card
Some credit cards earn extra rewards on gas, and some gas brands give bonus points for paying with a partner card. If gas is a big monthly expense, it’s worth checking whether a card you already have gives a bonus at the station you use. Don’t take on a card just for gas unless the numbers work.
5. Use your grocery and store points on gas
PC Optimum points can be redeemed at Esso: 4,000 points take 10¢ a litre off, up to 40 litres. That’s full value if you fill up with 40 litres, and less value on a smaller fill. Save it for a big fill-up.
6. Don’t buy premium unless you need it
If your owner’s manual says regular gas is fine, premium won’t make your car faster or cleaner. It just costs more. Only use premium if your manufacturer requires it.
7. Drive in a way that uses less fuel
- Keep your tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase fuel use. Check monthly, and more often in cold weather.
- Accelerate gently and keep a steady speed. Hard acceleration and braking burn more fuel.
- Slow down on the highway. Fuel use climbs noticeably at higher speeds.
- Cut idling and lose the roof rack when you’re not using it.
- Combine errands into one trip; a warm engine is more efficient.
8. Know where prices are headed
Gas prices move with crude oil prices, the Canadian dollar and seasonal demand, and some regions see regular weekly price swings. When an app shows prices dropping in your area, that’s the time to fill up. Note that the federal consumer carbon charge, about 17.6¢ a litre, was removed on April 1, 2025, so it no longer adds to the price at the pump.
FAQ
Which gas station rewards program is best in Canada?
The best one is the one at the station you use most often. PC Optimum at Esso is the most flexible if you also shop at Loblaw stores or Shoppers, since you can earn and redeem those points on groceries too.
Is Costco gas really cheaper?
Usually, yes, but it’s only available to members, and prices vary by location. Compare with nearby stations in an app before you go out of your way.
Does premium gas improve mileage?
Not if your car is designed for regular. Use the grade your owner’s manual recommends.
Can I use PC Optimum points on gas?
Yes, at Esso. 4,000 points take 10¢ a litre off, up to 40 litres.
Last checked October 2026. Loyalty programs and earn rates change, so check each program for current details.
