The following is a guest post by CreditShout. CreditShout has credit card reviews and information that can help you find the best gas credit cards and the best cash back credit cards for you.

Have you considered a gas credit card recently? With gas prices currently around $3 a gallon, saving between 5 and 25 cents per gallon is more than worth it to most people. Gas credit cards are one of the best ways to save money on gasoline because they offer rebates on gas purchases between 1% and 10%. Here’s a guide to the best ways to save money with gas credit cards.

1. Compare gas cards and find one that’s best suited to you
Always compare different gas credit cards before applying and look for a number of features to get the best card for your needs and credit history. Something that’s particularly important with gas cards is the introductory period, which often gives you double rebates during a set period of time. Gas cards may advertise that they’ll give you 6% cash back on gas purchases but upon reading the terms and conditions you’ll find that you only receive 6% for the first three months; afterwards your rebate drops to 3%. It’s also important to understand how you redeem rewards, if there is any expiration and other important rebate information. The best gas credit cards generally give you 5% cash back on your fuel purchases.

2. Decide whether you want a station-specific card or one that can be used anywhere
This is an important decision to make when choosing a gas credit card. There are many on the market that offer you the chance to use your credit card at any location and earn rebates or cash back on any gasoline purchases. One of the best is the Discover Open Road card, which gives you up to 5% cash back on gas purchases and 1% cash back anywhere else. If you shop at a particular gas station exclusively, a station-specific gas card may be a great pick. One of the top picks is the Chase BP Visa Rewards Card, which can earn you a whopping 10% cash back at BP stations for the first 60 days and 5% afterward. You also earn 1% cash back with this card at any other location.

3. Don’t carry a balance!
Carrying a balance on a gas credit card is the worst thing you can do and will obliterate any savings you earn. Think about this: gas credit cards often have higher-than-average APRs. If you’re carrying a balance and paying 14.99% interest and only earning 4% rebates, you’re actually losing money. Credit card companies are hoping that you’ll do this because it makes them money. Whatever you do, don’t carry a balance on any rewards card!

4. Stay up-to-date on new offers and features
Alawys keep on top of new offers from your gas card issuer, watching for extra savings at specific locations and new features that can save you even more money. You also need to make sure you’re aware of any changes to your account terms, which can end up costing you. This is a step many people overlook but it’s very important if you expect to come out ahead.

5. Use your gas card on all gas purchases!
This is the easy part: use your new gas rewards card on every gasoline purchase to watch the rewards add up. Some credit card issuers even allow you to use your credit card to purchase discount gas gift cards which can save you a ton, especially when gas prices are low. Another tip: use a website like gasbuddy.com to check gas prices in your area. This will help you save even more on gasoline while using your gas card to earn rebates everyday.

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