Stacking Rewards: Combining Fuel Credit Cards with Loyalty Programs
To achieve the deepest discounts on gasoline, savvy drivers know that using a single program is not enough. The ultimate strategy is "stacking"—the art of layering multiple discounts on a single transaction.
Understanding the Two Core Tools for Savings
The foundation of any stacking strategy involves two distinct tools. First is the gas station loyalty program, such as Shell Fuel Rewards, which is a free program that provides an instant cents-per-gallon discount directly at the pump before you pay. The second tool is a fuel rewards credit card, which provides a rebate after the purchase, typically as a percentage-based cash back that accumulates on your statement. These two tools are not mutually exclusive; they are designed to be used together.
The "Stacking" Strategy Explained
Stacking is the process of applying these two types of discounts in a specific order to get the greatest benefit. The correct sequence is crucial: first, you apply all your instant, cents-per-gallon discounts from loyalty programs at the pump. This dramatically lowers the initial price you are charged. Then, you pay the remaining, reduced balance with your high-yield fuel rewards credit card. This ensures you are earning a percentage-based rebate on the lowest possible price, effectively giving you a discount on top of a discount.
The Power of Supermarket Fuel Points
One of the most valuable loyalty programs for stacking is a supermarket fuel points program. Major grocery chains across the country allow you to earn fuel points on your grocery purchases, often at a rate of 1 point per dollar spent. These points can then be redeemed for large, cents-per-gallon discounts at the supermarket's own fuel center or at a partner gas station. By consistently funneling your grocery spending through one of these programs, you can accumulate substantial discounts, such as $1.00 off per gallon or more, creating a powerful first layer for your stack.
Choosing the Right Credit Card for Stacking
The credit card you choose is the final and crucial layer of your stack. If you are loyal to a specific brand, a co-branded credit card (like a Shell card) can be a great choice, as its instant discount often stacks directly with that brand's loyalty program. However, for maximum flexibility, a general rewards card that offers a high, permanent cashback rate on gas (e.g., 3% to 5%) is often the superior option. This allows you to take your supermarket points to any participating partner station and still use your high-yield card to get a rebate.
A Real-World Stacking Example
Imagine you have accumulated 70 cents off per gallon from your supermarket's fuel points program, which is redeemable at a specific gas station brand. At the pump, you first apply this discount. Then, you apply the additional 5 cents off per gallon from that station's own loyalty program. The price on the pump drops by a total of 75 cents per gallon. You then pay this new, lower price with your credit card that earns 4% cash back, capturing a final rebate on the already heavily discounted purchase.
Summary
The key to maximizing your fuel savings is to "stack" multiple rewards on a single transaction. This involves a three-step process: first, redeem high-value discounts from supermarket fuel points programs; second, apply the instant discount from the gas station's own loyalty program; and third, pay the final, reduced price with a high-yield fuel rewards credit card. By making this strategic layering a regular habit and always paying your credit card balance in full, you can ensure you are consistently achieving the absolute lowest possible price on every gallon of gas you buy.
