How to Check and Compare Fuel Prices in the UK

Summary

• Supermarket fuel is usually cheapest: Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Morrisons undercut branded stations by 5–10p per litre.
• Use a fuel price comparison tool: Our fuel finder shows real-time prices at stations near you.
• Small savings add up: Saving 5p per litre on a 50-litre tank saves £2.50 per fill. Over a year, that's £100+ for average drivers.

When fuel costs so much, paying more than you need to is just throwing money away. Here's how to find the cheapest fuel near you.

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Where to Find the Cheapest Fuel

Supermarket Stations

• Asda: Usually the cheapest major supermarket for fuel.
• Tesco: Competitive prices, plus Clubcard points on fuel purchases.
• Sainsbury's: Regular fuel discount vouchers with grocery shops.
• Morrisons: Good prices, especially when running promotions.
• Costco: Consistently the cheapest — but you need a membership (£35/year).

Avoid Motorway Services

Motorway fuel stations charge 15–25p per litre more than nearby alternatives. Plan ahead and fill up before you join the motorway.

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Fuel Price Comparison Tools

Tool	How It Works
CarOwl Fuel Finder	Enter your location and see real-time prices at nearby stations. Use our fuel finder here.
PetrolPrices.com	Search by postcode. Shows prices and distance.
Google Maps	Search "petrol stations near me" — some show current prices.
Waze	Community-reported prices along your route.

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Is Supermarket Fuel as Good as Branded Fuel?

Yes. All UK fuel meets the same British Standard (BS EN 228 for petrol, BS EN 590 for diesel). The base fuel is identical.

• Branded fuel (Shell V-Power, BP Ultimate): Contains additional cleaning additives. These can help but aren't essential for most cars.
• Supermarket fuel: Meets all required standards. Contains the minimum level of additives required by law.
• Bottom line: Supermarket fuel is fine for the vast majority of cars. Premium fuel may offer marginal benefits in high-performance engines.

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More Tips to Save on Fuel

1. Drive smoothly: Gentle acceleration and braking use less fuel.
2. Keep tyres pumped up: Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption by up to 3%.
3. Remove roof racks when not in use: They create drag and reduce fuel economy.
4. Don't idle: Turn off the engine if you're stopped for more than a minute.
5. Use cruise control on motorways: Maintains a steady speed and saves fuel.

For more fuel-saving advice, read our guide to saving money on fuel.

The average UK driver spends £1,500–£2,500 a year on fuel. Even a 5% saving means £75–£125 back in your pocket.

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When Is the Best Time to Fill Up?

Fuel prices change throughout the week. Here are some tips:

• Mid-week is often cheapest: Tuesday and Wednesday tend to have lower prices.
• Avoid filling up near holidays: Prices often rise before bank holidays and school breaks.
• Don't wait until empty: Filling up when you see a good price beats filling up when you're desperate.
• Look for loyalty schemes: Tesco Clubcard, Nectar at Sainsbury's, and Shell Go+ all offer savings.

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