Fuel prices could hit £2 a litre – here’s how to cut your fuel costs

If you’re a driver, it may pay to fill up sooner rather than later. There are growing fears that petrol and diesel prices could climb to £2 per litre, a jump of more than 50% from today’s average and close to the record highs seen during the 2022 energy crisis.

Fuel prices in the UK change daily. While most movements are small, global events can quickly push prices higher, and they usually go up faster than they fall.

Why could fuel prices increase?

After steady declines since mid-December, the average price of unleaded petrol has risen for two consecutive weeks.

Although today’s prices remain below the July 2022 peak of 191.55p per litre, reached after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, experts believe the recent downward trend may be over.

Several global factors are creating uncertainty in energy markets:

• concerns over Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs and their impact on global trade
• rising tensions in the Middle East
• the ongoing war in Ukraine
• increasing oil prices, with Brent Crude climbing above $71 per barrel, its highest level since July 2025

Because oil is traded globally, instability anywhere can affect prices at UK pumps.

How to cut your fuel costs

While we can’t control global oil markets, we can take steps to reduce how much we spend.

1. Compare prices before you fill up

Always prioritise the cheapest base price over collecting points.

Use comparison tools such as:

• Go.Compare
• PetrolPrices.com
• Confused.com

Enter your postcode, and sometimes your car registration, to find the lowest prices nearby.

But remember, don’t drive miles out of your way to save a small amount, an eight-mile round trip could wipe out your savings.

2. Use loyalty schemes, smartly

Loyalty cards can help, but only if the fuel price is already competitive.

Popular options include:

• Tesco Clubcard – 1 point per two litres
• Nectar at Sainsbury's – e.g. 300 points for 5p off per litre
• Shell Go+
• BPme Rewards
• Texaco Rewards

If you regularly use the same forecourts, signing up is worthwhile.

3. Pay with a cashback card

Using a cashback credit or debit card can offset some of the cost.

Just make sure you repay your credit card balance in full each month, as interest charges can quickly outweigh any cashback benefit.

4. Drive more efficiently

Small changes to your driving style can make a noticeable difference:

• avoid harsh acceleration and braking
• drive in the correct gear
• stick to speed limits
• maintain steady speeds where possible

Smoother driving equals lower fuel consumption.

5. Reduce drag and weight

• remove unused roof racks or roof boxes
• clear out unnecessary heavy items from your boot

A lighter, more aerodynamic car uses less fuel.

6. Avoid motorway service stations

Motorway service stations typically charge premium prices. If you’re planning a long journey, fill up before joining the motorway.

Fuel prices are influenced by global events we can’t control but where and how you buy fuel is within your control.

Comparing prices, driving efficiently and using rewards wisely could make a meaningful difference, especially if prices climb towards £2 per litre.