Gas prices are notoriously unpredictable, but timing your fill-up can actually make a measurable difference. Based on data from fuel tracking platforms and industry analysts, there are specific days—and even times—when gas prices tend to be lower. If you’re looking to optimize your fuel budget, here’s what the data says about when to fill your tank.
Weekday vs. Weekend Gas Price Trends
Across the U.S., gas prices tend to rise as the weekend approaches. That’s because many stations adjust prices based on demand, and drivers typically travel more on Fridays and weekends.
According to GasBuddy and AAA, Monday and Tuesday are consistently the best days to buy gas. Prices are usually at their lowest early in the week before they begin creeping up midweek. On the flip side, Fridays and Saturdays tend to be the most expensive days at the pump.
By shifting your fill-up schedule to earlier in the week, you could save anywhere from 10 to 15 cents per gallon—especially during high-travel seasons.
Morning vs. Evening Fill-Ups
While gas stations don’t typically adjust prices throughout the day, filling up in the morning can still offer advantages. Early fill-ups mean:
- Less traffic at the pump
- Lower demand, which can delay price hikes
- Cooler temperatures, which can slightly reduce vapor loss during fueling
Though the price itself may not change between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., you’re less likely to encounter an increase that was scheduled for later in the day. Reader’s Digest also points out that earlier trips help avoid the risk of same-day price spikes.
Timing Around Holidays and Price Surges
Holidays, especially ones centered around travel like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day, often lead to preemptive price hikes. Gas stations anticipate increased demand and raise prices accordingly—sometimes as early as the Thursday or Friday before a holiday weekend.
To avoid these surges:
- Fill up at the beginning of the week before a holiday
- Avoid pumping gas on the Friday of a long weekend
- Check tools like GasBuddy or AAA’s Gas Price Map for real-time pricing in your area
If a major storm or supply chain disruption is forecasted, prices may also spike quickly. In those cases, filling up a few days in advance can save you significantly.
