Coping with the gas pump

Tips for comparing gas cards and escaping high fuel prices

By David Munns

Some estimate that gas prices could reach as high as $6 to $7 per gallon by the end of the summer, so consumers are scrambling to find smarter, more efficient ways to fuel up. They're also finding that hassles at the pump aren't just due to record-high gas prices: Pump-side scams and spending limits on credit and gas cards make buying gasoline an even bigger headache.

Browse through this compilation of stories to make sure you find the best deals on gas and the best ways to finance summer driving:

1. Gas cards
2. Gas prices
3. Paying at the pump
4. Free gas giveaways

	What payment method do you use most often for buying gasoline? Cold, hard cash. Multipurpose card (Visa, Mastercard). Debit card. Rewards card. Gas station credit card. None. I walk or bike or bus. Vote Getting poll results. Please wait...

Gas cards comparison chart
CreditCards.com reviewed terms and conditions for the top 29 gas cards and found more rewards, cash back, points and rebates -- and no annual fees ... (more)

Automobile gas cards popularity falls
A new breed of hybrid gas cards has emerged -- issued by banks instead of oil companies ... (more)

Poll: Gas prices causing people to cut visits to family, friends
More than half of Americans say they've cut down on visiting family and friends due to gas prices, a CreditCards.com poll reveals ... (more)

Gas prices make the 2008 economy sputter
Two out of three Americans say they'll cut back on spending for other things as a result of higher energy costs in 2008 ... (more)
PLUS: Readers respond

Credit card thieves 'skimming' pay-at-the-pump gasoline buyers
As if the high cost of gas wasn't enough, credit and debit card users who pay at the pump have to face a new way to be gouged at the pump: skimmers ... (more)

Gas-buyers fume at credit and debit card limits, 'blocks'
High gas prices, industry practices leave consumers sputtering at the pump when they pay with plastic ... (more)

3 tips for buying gas
Rising gas prices are forcing motorists to make decisions not only about where to buy gasoline, but also which octane and what payment method adds the most value to their purchases ... (more)

Gas card giveaways
Marketers are smart to give away gas cards, but a word to the wise: Use it or lose it ... (more)

Saved by the gas card
A church in Snellville, Ga., created a new incentive for salvation: $500 gas cards ... (more)

Published: June 11, 2008 Comments or questions, Story archive

Three most recent Reward programs, cash back cards stories: Auto manufacturer credit cards: a car deal on wheels? – Many of today’s credit cardholders aren't interested in just any old rewards -- they're holding out for perks that come in the form of brand-new, all-leather-interior, fully loaded, shiny status symbols to adorn their driveways. ... Retail rewards cards: Stores give points and more – Department store credit cards used to offer one-time discounts. Now they offer a variety of ongoing rewards in an effort to build loyalty. ... Coping with the gas pump – We'll help you cope with the rising cost of gas, beware pump-side scams and learn smart ways to finance fuel costs. ...