If you’re regularly at the gas station—whether for work, errands, or daily commuting—fuel expenses can eat into your budget fast. But the good news is, you don’t have to rely on price drops to save. Cashback apps like Fluz, Upside, Rakuten, and Ibotta offer ways to earn money back every time you fuel up, no matter what you drive or where you’re headed.
Here’s a side-by-side look at how these apps compare in terms of usability, savings potential, gas station compatibility, and which type of driver they’re best suited for.
- Fluz: Instant Cashback Through Gift Cards
Fluz offers upfront cashback when you buy digital gift cards for gas stations. Instead of swiping your debit card at the pump, you purchase a gift card through the app for the exact amount you plan to spend, then use it immediately.
Ease of Use:
Simple, fast, and great for drivers who prefer to plan. Gift cards can be used at the pump or inside the station, and cashback is applied instantly.
Gas Station Compatibility:
Major stations like Chevron, Shell, Texaco, and Speedway.
Best For:
Budget-conscious drivers, commuters, and delivery workers who want predictable, trackable savings every time they fill up.
- Upside: Cashback Based on Location and Volume
Upside offers location-based gas station deals that vary by area. You claim an offer before fueling, fill up, then earn cashback after uploading a receipt or using a linked card.
Ease of Use:
Moderate. It requires checking the app before you fuel and occasionally submitting receipts, but it’s flexible and doesn’t require prepaying.
Gas Station Compatibility:
Large network including BP, Shell, Valero, Exxon, Mobil, and many regional stations—varies by location.
Best For:
Spontaneous drivers and road trippers who want to find the best local cashback deals on the fly.
- Rakuten: Indirect Fuel Savings via Gift Cards and Retail Offers
Rakuten isn’t a gas-specific app, but it offers cashback on gift cards and purchases from stores that may contribute to your fuel budget.
Ease of Use:
Very easy—especially if you’re already shopping online. Just activate offers through the app or browser extension.
Gas Station Compatibility:
Limited direct fuel support. Occasional offers on gas station gift cards or convenience stores that sell fuel.
Best For:
Online shoppers and those who want to supplement their fuel budget with retail cashback.
- Ibotta: Grocery Cashback That Supports Fuel Rewards
Ibotta offers cashback on grocery purchases and essentials. When used at stores tied to gas rewards programs (like Kroger, Safeway, or Albertsons), you can earn fuel points alongside your cashback.
Ease of Use:
Straightforward. Activate offers, shop, and scan your receipt or use a linked loyalty card.
Gas Station Compatibility:
Indirect. You earn fuel savings by using grocery store fuel rewards, not directly at the pump.
Best For:
Families and shoppers who already use grocery store loyalty programs and want to stretch their gas dollars further.
Which App Should You Use?
| App | Best For | Gas Station Access | Average Savings |
| Fluz | Commuters, delivery drivers | Chevron, Shell, Texaco, more | $0.10–$0.20/gal |
| Upside | Spontaneous, flexible drivers | BP, Exxon, Valero, regional | $0.10–$0.25/gal |
| Rakuten | Online shoppers, casual savers | Indirect fuel gift cards | Varies widely |
| Ibotta | Grocery-focused drivers | Tied to grocery fuel programs | $5–$15/month |
Final Thoughts
The best cashback app for you depends on how you drive and where you shop. Fluz is perfect if you want upfront savings and structure. Upside is ideal for drivers who prefer real-time flexibility. Rakuten and Ibotta work best as supporting apps to build cashback from your everyday purchases and apply them toward fuel costs.
Use one—or stack a few—to get the most out of every mile.
