BEAUMONT, Texas — Nationally, the U.S. is one penny away from meeting the record price per gallon seen in 2008.
That price of $4.10 per gallon is excepted to be reached on Monday. While fuel in Southeast Texas is still under the $4 range, the pain at the pumps is still being felt.
Some Southeast Texas drivers said they are paying almost double the amount they used to to fill up their tanks. Analysts predict the already high prices are expected to increase.
“Make no mistake,” Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said. “Much of what we’re seeing here is because of sanctions is Russia.”
Analysts shared tips on how drivers can save money. One way is simply by downloading apps to their phones.
Popular apps including GasBuddy and Getupside promise to help users find the best deals on gas in their area. However, some users reported that prices seen on the app do not match prices seen at pumps.
Analysts said the best way to save money is by joining gas station rewards programs. These include the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ program, Shell Fuel Rewards program, BPme Rewards program and Kroger Plus Card.
The Exxon Mobil Rewards + program can save users 3 cents in points per gallon in fuel purchases and 2 cents for other purchases. Users get $1 off for every 100 points.
By using Shell Fuel Rewards, users can save anywhere from 3 to 5 cents per gallon. Those who use BPme Rewards can save 5 cents per gallon, if they spend at least $100 on fuel each month.
Kroger Plus Card has more modest savings, but it does not come with any conditions. They offer users a flat rate of 3 cents off per gallon with no minimum spending requirements.
Analysts also shared driving tips to increase fuel efficiency. They believe even the smallest and silliest changes can save drivers money.
“I certainly would encourage motorists to do things that may sound silly in normal times,” De Hann said. “The little things are going to make a profound impact in how many miles you're able to get in that tank of gasoline.”
De Haan recommends drivers slow down on highways. He said depending on the vehicle, staying a few miles under the posted speed limit can increase fuel efficiency by five to 15 percent.
“Avoid higher speeds than 75,” De Haan said. “That's really when the wind gobbles up a lot of that fuel energy. Check your tire pressure"
De Haan also suggests drivers avoid abrupt acceleration or breaking.
Analysts said they know it may seem like drivers are counting pennies, but as the old adage goes, a penny saved is a penny earned. When drivers are constantly refilling their tanks, the pennies can start to add up.
"We have to have our gas,” Michelle West, Beaumont resident, said. “So, to make it where we need to go, so, we got to do [what] we got to do.”
West advises drivers to save money however they can, "Unless we all going to be riding bicycles."
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