Deciding on the best gas station loyalty program can be complicated. With options like Esso, Shell, and Petro-Canada, drivers often find it challenging to maximize their savings. Our analysis of the major loyalty programs reveals how much you can actually save at the pump.
Top Gas Station Loyalty Programs in Canada
We evaluated four main loyalty programs: Petro-Points, Shell Go+, PC Optimum, and Journie Rewards. Our calculations are based on a typical driver with a 40-litre tank refueling weekly. This amounts to approximately 2,000 litres of regular gasoline annually. The focus here is solely on gas savings.
1. Petro-Points
- Participating Brands: Petro-Canada, Canadian Tire Gas+
- Number of Stations: 1,800+
- Earning Rate: 1.2 ¢/L for standard, up to 4.4 ¢/L with RBC card
- Potential Savings (2,000 L): Up to $88
Earn points on gas, car washes, and in-store purchases. Linking an RBC card boosts rewards significantly.
2. Journie Rewards
- Participating Brands: Ultramar, Chevron, Fas Gas Plus, Pioneer
- Number of Stations: 1,200+
- Earning Rate: 1.3 to 3.3 ¢/L for regular members, up to 6.3 ¢/L with CIBC card
- Potential Savings (2,000 L): Up to $126
This program is cycle-based, rewarding users for consistent purchases. Members can enjoy savings based on how many litres they fill.
3. PC Optimum
- Participating Brands: Esso, Mobil
- Number of Stations: 2,400+
- Earning Rate: 1 ¢/L for standard, up to 7.2 ¢/L with PC Insiders Mastercard
- Potential Savings (2,000 L): Up to $144
The PC program allows users to collect points widely across Canada. Using a credit card significantly increases the earning potential.
4. Shell Go+
- Participating Brands: Shell
- Number of Stations: 1,400+
- Earning Rate: 1.2 ¢/L for regular, up to 9.7 ¢/L with CAA membership and BMO Mastercard
- Potential Savings (2,000 L): Up to $194
Shell Go+ integrates with the Air Miles program, offering high rewards for both fuel and in-store purchases, especially for members.
Bonus Mention: Costco
- Participating Brands: Costco Gasoline
- Number of Stations: 79
- Typical Savings Rate: 5 to 15 ¢/L
- Potential Savings (2,000 L): Up to $372
While Costco does not have an official rewards program, gas prices often outshine other loyalty benefits, providing significant savings.
Conclusion
The ideal gas station loyalty program for you depends on individual preferences and spending habits. While Shell Go+ offers the highest potential savings, programs like PC Optimum and Petro-Points are also competitive. Choose the one that aligns best with your driving and purchasing patterns to maximize your rewards.
