Gas prices expected to hit $4 a gallon by early spring. Here's how you can find cheapest gas
Even before Russia declared war and invaded Ukraine Wednesday night, gas prices were setting new records for the year.
Earlier in the week, prices hit $3.51 a gallon, nearly a dollar more than last year's high, according to AAA-The Auto Club Group.
For now, experts say motorists can expect $4 a gallon for much of the U.S. by early spring.
A $4 national average is “inevitable” given the current situation, said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy.
In announcing sanctions against Russia, President Joe Biden sought to offer reassurance that energy prices will stay under control. He said supplies are being monitored for disruptions, and pointed to ongoing coordination with oil suppliers.
“This will blunt gas prices. I want to limit the pain to the American people fueling at the gas pump,” Biden said. “This is critical to me.”
Gas prices and what to expect
► Russia invades Ukraine, gas prices due to skyrocket: 5 Things podcast
► Sticker shocked: Florida gasoline prices hit new high for 2022
► Russia's invasion of Ukraine will only add fuel to the fire of high gas prices
► Here are 10 driving tips on how to save on gas costs, consumption
Some of the best apps to find cheap gas
Looking for help to find the cheapest (or closest) gas? Whether you're just driving around town or on a road trip, here are some of the ones out there:
GasBuddy
Probably one of the best-known apps when it comes to finding cheap gas is GasBuddy. Available in both online and app formats, GasBuddy provides information on local stations, gas prices and what type of gas is available.
Users can use the search tool to type in their city or zip code and can even search for the type of fuel they want, their preferred payment method, station brands and how long ago the gas status was updated.
The web format site also gives users information on their state's current gas prices.
Gas Guru
Gas Guru pulls its gas price information from the Oil Price Information Service.
The Gas Guru app provides directions to the cheapest gas station near you, which you can then share with Facebook friends.
Waze
Drivers who use Waze can actively report accidents and find the least expensive gas prices posted by fellow drivers.
The popular navigation app lets users know how much they'll pay for gas, and it can direct drivers to the cheapest gas station.
By navigating to partner gas stations, the app offers "Waze-only" deals.
MapQuest Gas Prices
The MapQuest App lets motorists compare prices at nearby gas stations, along with offering such other features as up-to-date satellite imagery and maps and real-time traffic updates.
GEICO
Motorists don't need to be insured by GEICO to take advantage of its gas locating tool. Users enter their address for a list of gas stations and prices up to 25 miles away.
A search provides information on what gas stations are within the selected radius, in addition to what fuel is available, how much it is and its availability.
AutoBlog.com
While not as advanced as such sites as GasBuddy, AutoBlog.com still provides an option for locating cheap gas prices.
Users select the gas they're looking for from a dropdown menu and type in their zip code or city to find out what's closest to them.
Local journalism like this needs your support. Consider subscribing to your local newspaper. See our current offers.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: How to find cheapest gas: Apps you need to have, where to find gas
