ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — With gas prices hovering above $4 a gallon in the Asheville area, drivers are increasingly looking for ways to ease the strain at the pump without leaving their cars parked at home.

As of May 20-21, the average price for regular gasoline in Asheville sits at about $4.26 per gallon, according to AAA’s metro data. That’s up noticeably from earlier this year, when prices were generally in the low-to-mid $3 range during February.

Even small shifts add up quickly. A 15-gallon fill-up that cost roughly $50 to $53 earlier in the year now runs closer to $64 or more at current averages.

But for many local drivers, the focus has shifted from why prices are higher to how to blunt the impact.

Rewards, apps and timing the pump

One of the most widely used strategies in the Asheville area is taking advantage of grocery-linked fuel rewards. Programs like the Ingles Advantage Card allow shoppers to earn discounts at participating fuel stations, turning routine grocery runs into savings at the pump.

Cashback apps such as Upside and GasBuddy also remain popular. They offer rebates or discounted rates at participating stations, though drivers often note that the best savings come from pairing app deals with already-low base prices rather than using them at higher-priced stations.

Loyalty programs still matter

National fuel brands continue to offer loyalty programs that can shave a few cents off each gallon over time. Exxon Mobil Rewards+, Shell Fuel Rewards and Circle K rewards programs all provide varying discounts, points or promotional pricing depending on location.

While the savings may seem modest on a single fill-up, frequent drivers say they add up over weeks of commuting.

Location shopping: one of the biggest differences

Perhaps the simplest strategy is also one of the most effective: shop around.

Gas prices can vary widely across Asheville depending on the neighborhood and competition. Drivers routinely report swings of 20 to 50 cents per gallon within the same day, with stations in areas like South Asheville and along Airport Road often pricing lower because of higher competition.

For many residents, that difference alone can outweigh the value of most rewards programs.

Warehouse clubs and membership savings

Warehouse clubs such as Costco and Sam’s Club continue to offer some of the lowest fuel prices in the region for members. While membership is required, frequent drivers often find the savings on fuel alone can justify the cost over time.

Changing habits to save more than cents

Beyond discounts and rewards, some of the biggest savings come from reducing how often — and how far — people drive.

Asheville Rides Transit (ART) buses, carpooling and combining errands into a single trip can reduce fuel use significantly, especially for daily commuters. Even small changes in driving habits, such as avoiding peak congestion or unnecessary short trips, can help stretch a tank further.

For many Asheville drivers, the goal isn’t just finding cheaper gas anymore — it’s finding ways to use less of it.