Open Roads Gas Card Saves RVers Money at the Pump

When a fellow traveler on Facebook encouraged me to get the Open Roads gas card, my Spidey senses started tinkling. My dad taught me that anything that seems too good to be true probably is a scam, however, with the price of fuel going up daily, I investigated the recommendation. This is what I found.

My research began with an internet search of Open Roads. I read reviews online to determine its credibility. Overwhelmingly, the reviews showed 5 stars and users shared positive experiences. The company's website describes themselves with this quote.

"By joining our program, you will have access to discount diesel prices at specified locations such as Loves and Travel Centers of America. Current members are saving 30 to 40 cents per gallon off the pump price. There are no signup fees or membership fees to join. There are no long-term contracts to sign and no hidden fees." - Open Roads

When I searched RV Facebook Forums numerous travelers shared positive personal testimonials about Open Roads gas card. When visiting the Open Roads Webpage, I learned how the program functions to save consumers money. All the research prompted me to apply for a gas card and after using it several times, I recommend it to RVers who drive diesel rigs. The future plan is to establish a similar program from gasoline which I look forward to joining. 

"Have a gasoline vehicle? You're in luck! Coming in summer 2022 we will be offering a gasoline discount card as well as the diesel card."- Open Roads

The application process is simple. It takes 5 minutes to answer a few questions online. The company does ask for the applicant's social security number which caused apprehension, but my research of their reputable business coupled with reviews by users eased my concern. In a short time, I was approved and a fuel card that looks like a credit card arrived in the mail within 2 weeks. The card is a debit card that when inserted into the gas pumps deducts fuel costs from a checking account.

How the app saves money

The Open Roads App can be downloaded onto any smartphone. When opened, a map displays your location and participating gas stations nearby with the current gas price. Because the app is currently restricted to diesel purchases and is marketed to truckers and larger rigs, available stations are truck stops easily accessible when traveling.

The promise to save money usually comes with a catch. Once I shopped at a store that promised savings only to find they provided limited high-end brands costing more than generic brands of the same quality. So, I compared gas prices advertised on the app with posted gas prices as I traveled through Idaho, Utah, California, and Nevada. Prices were cheaper. 

Be aware the price at the pump is different than the price charged when using the Open Roads Card. The picture below shows the cost of a purchase on the meter but when I opened the app to check my transaction it showed the price after the membership deduction. In this case, I saved $9.92 on this one stop for 37 gallons off fuel when topping off our tank, a saving that is repeated with each filling. 

There is a transaction fee with each fill-up but it is minimal.

"There is a transaction fee of 40 or 65 cents depending on the specified fueling location. This fee is required by our fuel partners and goes directly to that specific fuel merchant, not Open Roads." - Open Roads 

The card must be used in the commercial truck lanes. These are usually in the back of the lot which has been a major asset for us because this area is more assessible to our 40-foot motorhome. Our biggest concern when planning to get gas is if the motorhome will fit, if there is room to exit and because we are towing a car the ability to manuever is needed. 

A member can choose which station along their route to patronize. We found some sell biodiesel (watch for an article on this topic in the future) and the prices vary significantly within short distances.

The card comes in the mail with detailed directions for use but this information is also available online. The step-by-step directions are simple to follow and execute.

Referral program

Open Roads also offers a referral program that benefits users. I suggest finding someone who is already a member and providing their name in the "Referred By" field on the application. People who are referred earn a $25 fuel credit after $500 in discounts are received.

If you don't know anyone, I invite you to supply the name Randy Mahler, my husband, as our enrollment is under his name. I figure someone should benefit so we are willing to step up and offer our services. A huge thank you to anyone who does add us to your application.

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