For avid drivers who find solace on the open road, there’s good news! The best credit cards for gas expenses can turn your fuel purchases into opportunities for savings.
Beyond just gas rewards, these cards often come with additional perks. They offer attractive points or cash back rewards on various everyday spending categories, and some even provide consumer protections or travel benefits to enhance your overall experience.
To compile a comprehensive list of the top gas credit cards, we thoroughly analyzed numerous offerings from different issuers. After careful consideration, we present our handpicked selections that cater to various needs and preferences. So, let’s explore these cards and see which one suits you best.
Best gas credit cards of 2023
BJ’s One+™ Mastercard
If you’re a BJ’s Club+ level member at BJ’s Wholesale Club, you can take advantage of the BJ’s One+™ Mastercard®, which offers several attractive benefits. First and foremost, you’ll receive a substantial discount of 15 cents per gallon of gas at BJ’s gas stations. This can lead to significant savings for frequent drivers.
Furthermore, the card provides attractive cash-back rewards on your purchases. You’ll earn 5% cash back on most in-club and BJs.com purchases, making it even more rewarding to shop at the discount warehouse store. Additionally, for all other purchases made outside of BJ’s, you’ll still earn 2% cash back, which adds value to your everyday spending.
One of the most enticing aspects of this credit card is that it comes with no annual fee. However, to access these benefits, you need to maintain an active BJ’s Wholesale Club membership, which comes with an annual cost of $110.
It’s also worth mentioning that the BJ’s One+™ Mastercard® does not offer a welcome bonus. While some credit cards entice new cardholders with introductory offers, this card focuses on providing long-term value through ongoing rewards and savings.
If you’re a frequent traveler, you’ll appreciate that the card doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees. This makes it a suitable choice for making purchases abroad without incurring additional charges.
Chase Freedom Flex℠
The Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers a range of enticing features, making it an appealing choice for many cardholders. One of its standout features is the generous cash-back program, which includes rotating quarterly categories. Although gas may not be guaranteed every year, it has been included in the past as a rotating quarterly category, providing opportunities for cash-back rewards.
Another attractive aspect of the card is the introductory APR period. Cardholders can enjoy a 0% intro APR for the first 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers, which can be beneficial for those looking to make large purchases or consolidate debt. After the introductory period, the variable APR falls within the range of 20.24% to 28.99%.
When it comes to balance transfers, there is an introductory fee of either $5 or 3% of each transfer, depending on which is greater, during the first 60 days. Afterward, the fee increases to the greater of $5 or 5% of each transfer. This information is essential for those considering transferring balances from other credit cards.
In addition to financial perks, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers various protections for cardholders. These include trip cancellation and interruption insurance, secondary rental car coverage, cellphone protection, purchase protection, and extended warranty protection. These protections can provide peace of mind when using the card for various transactions.
It’s also noteworthy that the card comes with no annual fee, making it an attractive option for individuals who want to avoid extra costs. The rewards structure is appealing as well, with 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in rotating quarterly categories (requires activation), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. This diverse rewards system caters to various spending habits.
U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card
The U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card stands out due to its unique rewards customization feature. Users have the flexibility to tailor their rewards based on their spending preferences. For those who shop frequently at specific retailers, the card offers an attractive 6% cash back on combined purchases from two chosen retailers each quarter, up to a limit of $1,500. Additionally, there is a generous 5.5% cash back on prepaid car and hotel reservations made through the Rewards Center.
Another appealing aspect of the card is the 3% cash back on purchases in one everyday category of choice each quarter, with a $1,500 limit. This allows cardholders to earn significant rewards on their preferred spending categories. For all other purchases, the card offers a steady 1.5% cash back rate.
However, it’s essential to be aware of some downsides to the card. After the first year, there is an annual fee of $95, which might be a consideration for some users. Additionally, the elevated cash-back rates have a quarterly cap, limiting the potential rewards in certain categories during each quarter.
As a welcome bonus, new cardholders can enjoy a $250 bonus after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of opening an account. This is a great incentive for those looking to earn extra rewards in the initial months.
It’s worth noting that the U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card also charges foreign transaction fees of 3% on each foreign transaction. Therefore, it might not be the best choice for those who frequently travel internationally.
Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers a straightforward rewards structure that covers various categories, making it appealing for many users. Notable reward categories include restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans.
Moreover, the card provides additional benefits, such as cellphone protection, which covers up to $600, allowing users to make up to two claims within a 12-month period (subject to a $25 deductible). It also offers secondary car rental coverage for added peace of mind. Additionally, the card features a 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 12 months after opening an account, after which a variable APR of 19.99%, 24.99%, or 29.99% applies for purchases and balance transfers. Speaking of balance transfers, it’s important to note that the card does have a balance transfer fee of up to 5% with a $5 minimum.
On the downside, while the card boasts a 0% intro APR on purchases, it doesn’t offer the same benefit for balance transfers. Furthermore, the base earning rate on purchases made outside of the bonus categories is relatively low. As a result, it may be advantageous for cardholders to consider pairing this card with another one to maximize their rewards potential.
For those who are budget-conscious, the Wells Fargo Autograph Card has an annual fee of $0, which is a definite advantage. Additionally, the card’s welcome bonus is attractive, offering 20,000 points to users who spend $1,000 on purchases within the first three months of opening an account. Lastly, for those who frequently travel abroad, the card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it a favorable choice for international use.
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is a credit card that offers strong rewards for various categories. One of its main strengths is its 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center. Additionally, it provides 4 points per $1 on travel and gas stations, making it an attractive choice for frequent travelers. Cardholders also earn 2 points per $1 at grocery stores, grocery delivery, dining, and streaming services, which can add up quickly for everyday expenses. For all other eligible purchases, the card offers 1 point per $1.
Moreover, this gas credit card boasts an impressive welcome bonus, providing cardholders with 50,000 points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 120 days of account opening. This welcome bonus is among the most lucrative of all the cards available.
In terms of additional benefits, the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card offers a $30 annual streaming credit (terms apply), which can be a nice perk for entertainment lovers. Cardholders also get to enjoy a limited airport lounge membership, providing access to airport lounges for a more comfortable travel experience. Another valuable feature is the cellphone protection, which can save cardholders money in case of accidental damage or theft.
Despite its strengths, there are a couple of downsides to consider. Firstly, the card has a relatively low earning rate of just 1 point per dollar on regular purchases, making it less appealing for non-bonus category spending. Additionally, it’s worth noting that points earned with this card cannot be transferred to travel partners, limiting redemption options for those who prefer transferring points to loyalty programs.
Finally, the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card comes with a $0 introductory annual fee for the first 12 months, followed by an annual fee of $95. For frequent travelers and gas spenders who can maximize the rewards, this fee might be easily offset by the card’s benefits and rewards. However, it’s essential to evaluate your spending habits and needs before committing to this card. One final positive aspect of this card is that it has no foreign transaction fees, making it suitable for international travelers.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express stands out for its attractive rewards rates, particularly for U.S. supermarket spending, making it one of the best options available in the market. It also offers substantial cashback on U.S. gas stations and transit purchases, making it ideal for those who frequently use these services. Moreover, cardholders can enjoy up to $120 in annual statement credits for an Equinox+ membership and up to $84 in annual statement credits for eligible Disney Bundle subscriptions. However, it’s important to note that enrollment is required for select benefits.
One significant advantage of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card is the 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers requested within the first 60 days. After the introductory period, the variable APR falls between 18.99% to 29.99%. There is a balance transfer fee of $5 or 3%, whichever is greater, that applies.
On the downside, the card has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, but it increases to $95 after that. Additionally, there is a spending cap on the cash-back rate for U.S. supermarket purchases, and the earning rate for non-bonus-category spending is relatively low.
When it comes to rewards, the card offers an impressive 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), making it a lucrative option for grocery shoppers. It also provides 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit, and 1% cash back on other purchases. The cashback is received in the form of Reward Dollars, which can be redeemed as a statement credit.
As with many credit cards, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card has foreign transaction fees, which amount to 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars. It’s important for travelers to keep this in mind when using the card abroad.
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card offers a unique feature that allows you to choose which categories you earn 5% cash back on. These categories include prepaid air, hotel, and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. Additionally, you can earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories of your choice. Furthermore, the card provides 2% cash back on one everyday category, such as gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants, and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
One advantage of the card is the 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles, which can be beneficial for managing your finances. However, after the introductory period, the variable APR ranges from 19.49% to 29.49%, so it’s essential to keep this in mind.
On the downside, the card comes with some drawbacks. Firstly, there are quarterly spending caps, which may limit the amount of cash back you can earn. Secondly, you need to remember to activate your bonus category each quarter to receive the rewards. This requirement can be a hassle for some users and might result in missed opportunities for earning cash back.
Furthermore, the categories eligible for cash back are more niche compared to some other cash-back cards. This aspect might make it challenging for some consumers to fully optimize the rewards offered by the card.
If you’re looking for a card with no annual fee, the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card fits the bill, as it doesn’t charge any annual fees. Moreover, it comes with a welcome bonus of $200 rewards when you spend $1,000 on purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.
It’s worth noting that if you plan on using the card for foreign transactions, you should be aware of the foreign transaction fees. For purchases made in U.S. Dollars, the fee is 2% of each transaction, and for purchases made in a Foreign Currency, the fee is 3% of each transaction.
Should you get a gas credit card?
Gas credit cards are known for offering attractive rewards on fuel purchases, making them particularly beneficial for individuals with regular commutes or those who frequently spend money on leisure trips involving fuel expenses. However, before deciding on a gas credit card from the list, there are other factors worth considering.
Apart from fuel rewards, it’s essential to check whether the card offers additional cash back or points in categories that align with your spending habits, such as groceries or dining out. By identifying these benefits beforehand, you can optimize your rewards potential. Additionally, take a closer look at the perks provided by the cards you’re interested in, such as purchase protection, extended warranties, travel insurance, or 0% introductory APR offers. Ensure that these benefits are relevant and useful to you.
When comparing gas credit cards, it’s crucial to assess the potential rewards you could earn over a year and evaluate the overall value of the card’s perks. This comprehensive analysis will help you make an informed decision about whether a gas credit card aligns perfectly with your spending patterns or if another type of rewards credit card might be a better fit for your needs.
What is a gas credit card?
A gas credit card is a rectangular piece of plastic or metal that allows you to make charges and pay them back later. Similar to other credit cards, it accrues interest if the balance is not paid off in full each billing period. Some gas credit cards come with annual fees and foreign transaction fees for purchases made abroad.
What sets gas credit cards apart from other types of credit cards are the special benefits they offer. These can include bonus rewards for gas purchases or fuel discounts when buying from specific brands. Moreover, many gas credit cards provide attractive rewards for everyday spending in categories such as dining out, groceries, or streaming services. These additional perks make gas credit cards appealing to consumers looking to maximize their rewards and savings.
Who should get a gas credit card?
A gas credit card is a rectangular piece of plastic, sometimes made of metal, that allows you to purchase fuel and other items at gas stations. To benefit from a gas credit card, it’s best suited for individuals who spend a significant amount on fueling up their cars each month. However, it’s important to be cautious with gas credit cards, as they often come with high-interest rates if you carry a balance. For those who tend to accumulate credit card debt, using gas credit cards may not be financially advantageous.
On the other hand, if you can consistently pay off your credit card balance in full each month, a gas credit card can be a smart way to offset a portion of your fuel expenses. By avoiding interest charges, you’ll maximize the benefits of the card’s rewards or cashback programs, if applicable.
For those who anticipate carrying a balance for several months and wish to avoid high interest charges, there are alternative options available. Some credit cards offer a low introductory APR, which can provide temporary relief from interest costs. It’s worth considering these cards if you know you’ll need some time to pay off your balances. However, it’s crucial to manage credit responsibly and avoid falling into a cycle of debt.
How much can gas credit cards save you at the pump?
Very few general-purpose gas credit cards provide fuel discounts; usually, such discounts are available on brand-specific store cards. A notable card with a generous discount is the BJ’s One+™ Mastercard®, offering 15 cents off per gallon when purchasing fuel at BJ’s Gas.
Unlike traditional savings on fuel, most gas credit cards offer cash back or points for both gas and other purchases. These rewards can be converted into various options, such as cash back, statement credits, or gift cards, depending on the specific card.
It’s essential to consider your spending habits and preferences when choosing a gas credit card. Some cards might offer better rewards on gas purchases, while others may have more flexible redemption options for the rewards earned. Additionally, keep in mind any annual fees or interest rates associated with the card, as these can impact the overall value of the card’s benefits.
Before applying for a gas credit card, be sure to check if there are any restrictions on the types of fuel stations where the discounts apply. Some cards may limit the discount to specific brands or locations, so it’s essential to know these details beforehand.
If you already have a preferred gas station or brand, consider getting their branded credit card to maximize your savings on fuel. These cards often provide higher discounts or rewards when purchasing fuel from their affiliated stations, making them a great choice for loyal customers.
Remember to use your gas credit card responsibly and pay off the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. Utilizing the rewards effectively and staying on top of your payments will help you make the most of your gas credit card and ensure a positive financial impact.
Comparing gas credit card rewards
As you review the top gas credit cards, it’s crucial to consider the options for redeeming your rewards. Each rewards credit card may offer different redemption possibilities, and it’s essential to understand these differences before making a decision.
For instance, the BJ’s One+™ Mastercard® offers cash back rewards, but they can only be used for merchandise within BJ’s stores, on BJs.com, or in the BJ’s app. On the other hand, some American Express cash-back credit cards, such as the Blue Cash Preferred® Card, limit redemptions to statement credits.
In contrast, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ provides more flexibility in reward redemption. You can redeem your earned rewards for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, and even travel bookings made through Chase.
When comparing gas credit cards, evaluating the redemption options is essential to find the card that best suits your needs and spending habits. Consider how you’d like to use your rewards and choose a credit card that aligns with your preferences. Whether you prefer cash back, statement credits, or various redemption options, there’s a credit card out there that can maximize the value of your rewards.
How gas credit cards work
Gas credit cards offer a rewarding way to earn benefits based on their specific terms. These cards can be used to make gas purchases at the pump or inside gas stations, as well as for other everyday expenses. The billing cycle for these cards typically lasts around 30 days, during which you can make multiple charges. At the end of the cycle, you will receive a detailed bill itemizing all your expenses.
One significant advantage of gas credit cards is the grace period they provide. If you pay off the entire credit card balance before the billing cycle ends, you won’t incur any interest on your purchases. However, if you decide to carry a balance, the outstanding amount will accumulate interest based on the card’s annual percentage rate (APR).
An annual fee is a common feature of many credit cards, including some gas credit cards. However, it’s worth noting that some gas credit cards waive the annual fee for the first year or don’t charge it at all.
Using a gas credit card responsibly can be a helpful way to build a positive credit history. To make the most of these cards, it’s essential to use them only for purchases that you can comfortably pay off in full each billing cycle. By doing so, you can enjoy the rewards and benefits without falling into debt.
Choosing the best gas credit card
When searching for the ideal gas credit card to suit your needs, several key factors should be considered:
Firstly, evaluate the annual fees associated with the card. It’s essential to ensure that any yearly fee is justified by the extra rewards and cardholder benefits you’ll receive. If the perks outweigh the costs, it may still be a worthwhile choice.
Secondly, take a close look at the rewards categories offered by the card. Make sure they align with your regular spending patterns. Opt for a card that rewards you generously for purchases you frequently make.
Another crucial aspect to examine is the welcome bonus provided by the card. Look for cards that offer substantial welcome bonuses, such as $200 or more, especially if you can meet the minimum spending requirement. These bonuses can provide an excellent head start on earning rewards.
Finally, consider the type of rewards that best suit your preferences. Check the redemption options available and create a plan for utilizing the points you earn. Whether it’s statement credits, gift cards, or other choices, having a clear strategy will ensure you maximize the benefits of your gas credit card.
