Fleet cards are commonly used by companies to manage fuel expenses for multiple vehicles, offering discounts and streamlined tracking. But for solo drivers, small business owners, and independent contractors, traditional fleet cards may be inaccessible or not worth the hassle. Fortunately, there are alternative tools and apps that offer many of the same benefits—without the fees or corporate requirements.
Whether you’re managing a small delivery operation or just looking to reduce fuel expenses, here are the best alternatives to fleet cards that can help you earn cashback, track purchases, and optimize every fill-up.
- Fluz: Digital Gift Cards with Instant Cashback
Fluz is one of the most flexible and rewarding fleet card alternatives. You can purchase digital gift cards for fuel brands—like BP—and receive instant cashback at the time of purchase. There’s no account minimum or fleet requirement, making it perfect for gig workers or small teams.
Fluz benefits include:
- Buy cards on the spot for the exact fuel amount
- Stackable with fuel loyalty programs
- Instant cashback applied to your account
You still get the merchant’s fuel rewards (like BPme Rewards) while earning cashback on the front end.
- Upside: Claim Offers at Participating Gas Stations
Upside works by letting drivers claim fuel offers before they pump. After fueling, you either upload your receipt or verify your card to receive cashback.
Key features:
- No prepaid fuel needed
- Cashback is tied to card transactions
- Offers vary by gas station and location
Upside is ideal for flexible savings—especially in urban areas or during long drives where you may encounter different station brands.
- Ibotta: Fuel-Adjacent Cashback
Ibotta isn’t exclusively focused on gas, but many convenience stores attached to gas stations participate. If you’re stopping for snacks or essentials, you can earn cashback on in-store purchases, which helps offset fuel costs.
Bonus tip: Combine Ibotta rewards with a Fluz-purchased gift card to layer multiple cashback opportunities during a single fuel stop.
- Gas Credit Cards Without Fleet Restrictions
If you’re looking for consistent savings but don’t qualify for fleet cards, a few personal credit cards offer high cashback rates on fuel:
- Sam’s Club Mastercard – 5% cashback on gas (first $6,000 annually)
- PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa – 5x points at gas stations
Use these cards to buy digital gift cards through Fluz, effectively stacking credit card points with app-based cashback.
- Gas Station Loyalty Programs
While not direct substitutes for fleet cards, loyalty programs like Exxon Mobil Rewards+ or Shell Fuel Rewards give you discounts at the pump without requiring any special account or approval.
Pair these with Fluz or Upside for stacked savings without the restrictions of traditional fleet systems.
Final Thoughts
Fleet cards aren’t the only way to save on fuel and track purchases. With tools like Fluz, Upside, and gas-specific credit cards, independent drivers and small teams can build a flexible, cashback-friendly fuel routine. No monthly fees, no vehicle minimums—just smart alternatives that reward you every time you fill up.
