5 Ways to Get Free Gas

I want to go on a road trip (it’s been one of those big ideas in the back of my mind since my 16th birthday) – just a few friends, a comfy car, and me driving the open road from New York to California. Unfortunately, my dream vacation has remained on the backburner due to rising, rising, rising gas prices.

Now, though, there’s hope on the horizon. This summer there is a ton of promotions/deals that may ease the ouch-factor at the pump. Here’s how to get your free (yes, free!) gas:

BOOK A NIGHT AT A HOTEL
Hotels like Comfort Inn, EconoLodge, Clarion and Sleep Inn (choicehotels.com) will give loyal lodgers (i.e. if you book with the same hotel for three separate stays) gas cards over the summer.

CARPOOL
Many states and local agencies are giving gas cards to commuters who promise to share a ride. New Jersey’s Carpooling Makes Sense Program gives $100 in gas to drivers who pledge to 24 days of carpooling within two months. Meanwhile, San Mateo County in California is offering $60 for carpools ($80 if it’s a hybrid carpool) for a 2-day a week commitment during an eight week period. Check your local/state government offices to see if there are offers available in your area.

OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT
Some banks like TCF Bank (tcfbank.com) are giving new customers free gas cards just for opening a checking or savings account. Other financial institutions like Flagstar (flagstar.com) gives clients $100 in free gas for putting their money in a CD account. Before settling on a bank, Google ( “BANK NAME” + “FREE GAS”) the prospects to see if they offer gas cards to newbies.

RENT A CAR
Going on a trip? Skip airfare, avoid long lines and leave your everyday ride in your driveway. Some car rental agencies, like Hertz, are offering free tanks of gas with specific car rentals.

BE A DRIVING ADVERTISEMENT
Pull in $40-400 a month by sticking a sign for Gypsybug.com (an online classified company) on your car and driving around town as normal. If you’re a frequent driver, join Freegashelp.com, where you can choose to advertise for participating companies via door magnets, complete vehicle covers, and everything in between. The payoff? Up to $200 a month for gas!