5 Little-Known Ways to Save Money on Gas in Canada

(Used by taxi drivers, Uber drivers, and long-haul drivers)

 

As we explained in our previous guide on why gas prices are rising, Vancouver drivers are now paying around $1.70–$1.73 per litre, making a full tank cost over $100. With global oil prices staying high due to geopolitical tensions, saving fuel is more important than ever. Professional drivers, who fill up almost daily, have developed several practical habits that can reduce fuel costs by 10–20% per year.

Here are the most effective ones.

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1. Fill Up at Costco — the Difference Can Be Huge

In many Canadian cities, Costco sells gasoline 8–20 cents per litre cheaper than most other gas stations.

For example, in Metro Vancouver prices often look like this:

For a 55-litre tank, the savings per fill-up can reach $7–$12.

If you fill up once a week, that adds up to roughly $350–$500 per year.

The main downside is long lineups.

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2. Use the “Quarter Tank Strategy”

Most drivers wait until their tank is almost empty.

Professional drivers often do the opposite — they refuel when the tank reaches about 1/4 full.

Why this helps:

You can choose the station with the best price
You can fill up before a price spike
You avoid being forced to buy fuel at an expensive station

Gas prices in Canada can change several times per week.

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3. Watch the Weekly Gas Price Cycle

In many Canadian regions — especially British Columbia and Ontario — gas prices tend to follow a predictable weekly cycle.

Typical pattern:

That’s why many drivers prefer filling up Monday or Tuesday.

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4. Avoid Gas Stations Near Highways and Airports

This is one of the most underestimated factors.

Gas stations located:

• near airports
• near major highways
• near tourist areas

can be 15–25 cents per litre more expensive.

A classic Vancouver example:

Sometimes driving just a few blocks away can make a noticeable difference.

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5. Use Grocery and Fuel Reward Programs

Some retail chains offer meaningful fuel discounts.

Real Canadian Superstore

PC Optimum program

Drivers can often receive 7–10 cents per litre in rewards.

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Shell

Air Miles program

Drivers can collect Air Miles for each fill-up, which can later be redeemed for travel or rewards.

(Air Miles used to partner with Safeway, but that partnership no longer exists.)

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Save-On-Foods

Occasionally offers fuel rewards through partner promotions.

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Driving Style Matters More Than Most People Think

Driving habits can significantly affect fuel consumption.

According to Natural Resources Canada:

Better driving habits include:

smooth acceleration
maintaining 80–100 km/h on highways
using cruise control
checking tire pressure once per month

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One More Unexpected Way to Save Fuel

Avoid long engine warm-ups in winter.

Modern engines warm up within 30–60 seconds of driving.

Long idling:

• wastes fuel
• increases engine wear

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Real-World Savings

If these methods are used consistently, drivers can reduce fuel consumption by about:

10–20%

For a typical Vancouver driver:

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Interesting Fact

Canada ranks among the top countries in the world for gasoline consumption per person, despite its relatively small population.

The main reason is large distances and heavy reliance on personal vehicles.

Countries with the Highest Fuel Consumption per Capita

In North America, cars remain the primary mode of transportation, which makes fuel one of the largest recurring expenses for many households.

 

Translation of the article into Russian: 5 Little-Known Ways to Save Money on Gas in Canada

Mykhaylo Arbetov, CFP, FMA
Financial Advisor & Planner (Vancouver)
Certified Financial Planner — Michael Arbetov