How to save on petrol
Choose the right petrol, compare nearby reports and check whether a detour will actually save money.
Before you choose a station
- Compare the same petrol grade at nearby servos.
- Check when the price was reported and calculate any detour saving.
- Use current charts and local prices rather than a permanent cheapest-day rule.
- Calculate the saving for the litres you will actually buy.
Six checks for a cheaper fill
Work through these checks in order. The best result is a compatible fuel at a useful station, not simply the lowest national price.
1. Use the fuel your vehicle requires
Check the owner’s manual or fuel-flap label for the minimum RON and approved fuel type. A lower bowser price is not a saving if the fuel is unsuitable.
2. Compare nearby servos
Compare the same fuel grade at servos you can reasonably reach. Start with price, distance and the direction you are already travelling.
3. Read the report time
A station report can be overtaken by a later price change. Check the update time and confirm an older report before making a special trip.
4. Check where prices sit in the current cycle
Some capital-city petrol markets rise and discount in cycles, but the duration changes. Read the current chart instead of relying on a fixed weekday.
5. Calculate the detour
Multiply the price gap by the litres you plan to buy, then compare that gross saving with the return distance, fuel used and time.
6. Track your real running cost
Use your vehicle’s measured litres per 100 kilometres where possible. Pump price alone cannot show which compatible option costs less per kilometre.
Fuel-saving questions
Is there one cheapest day to buy petrol?
No fixed weekday works in every city or every cycle. Check the current city chart and nearby station reports before deciding when to fill.
How do I know whether a detour is worthwhile?
Multiply the cents-per-litre gap by the litres you expect to buy. Compare that gross saving with the return distance, fuel used and time.
Does cheaper E10 always reduce running cost?
No. Check that the vehicle is compatible, then compare the pump discount with the vehicle’s actual fuel use. Cost per kilometre is the useful comparison.
Can I rely on an older station report?
Treat it as a lead, not a guarantee. Check the report time and confirm the bowser price before a long detour.
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