Top web sites, phone apps for finding the lowest gas prices

With local gas prices pushing $4.25 and $4.50, a trip to the gas pump these days can be a sickening event. And while we can reduce unnecessary trips and running around town, we’ll still eventually have to fill up. To make it as easy on your wallet as possible, try these web sites to find the lowest gas prices in town:

• GasBuddy.com: You have to click through 3-4 screens to select your state, county and then city, but then it shows you gas prices from several places in the area.

• GasPriceWatch.com: Enter a zip code to see a list of gas stations and their prices in the area. Each marker on the map is color coded to show you how recent the pricing information is—from 8 hours to 72 hours. You can also search for regular or premium fuel prices. This was our fave of the five because it’s easy, quick and provides the most options and information.

• FuelMeUp.com: Enter a city, state or zip for a low-to-high listing of gas prices in the area. You also have the ability to toggle between fuel grades.

• Mapquest.com: Not just for driving directions! Enter an address, city or zip code, and Mapquest will return a map with markers for nearby gas stations. It will display the name and address of several area gas stations, starting with the ones that have the lowest priced gas. It also shows you the highest cost of gas in each area.

• MSN Autos: This seems to be a beta version, but like Mapquest, you enter a zip code and it pops up a list of gas stations and prices, lowest to highest.

Prefer to have the information instantly using an app on your phone? Here are five choices for the iPhone and Android phones:

iPhone

• AAA TripTik: The app provides latest gas prices, maps, directions, and AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotel details and bookings. Route to an address, or find and get directions to nearby restaurants, events or attractions. A shake of your iPhone redraws the route from your current location if you get diverted, and it also provides voice guidance for your next maneuver. The app identifies your location if you need Roadside Assistance from AAA.

• iGasUp: You can map and sort gas stations by the 10 cheapest or 10 closest stations for different fuel grades. The app can also give you directions (via Google Maps). If you enter your destination zip code, the app will find the 10 cheapest gas stations in the area.

• GasBook: This apps gives you the best gas and diesel prices in the United States and includes a fuel log so you can track your vehicle’s fuel efficiency–or lack thereof. If you really like to track the data, you can export the log to a .csv file.

• GasBuddy: You can find the cheapest gas in the U.S. and Canada by ZIP Code or GPS auto locator. It also returns information about whether a gas station offers an ATM, car wash or food store. Through the app, you can also use Google Maps to find your way. If you press your like and find yourself running extremely low on gas, the app’s “On Fumes” option finds the closest gas stations regardless of price.

• FuelFinder: The developers tout the money you’ll save with this app: an estimated $300 a year, they say. Search gas prices by zip code or GPS auto locator. Find out what additional services a gas station offers. The app also includes navigation, an “on fumes” mode and a savings calculator tailored for your mileage drive, tank size and your car’s fuel economy.

Droid Phones

• CheapGas: Find the cheapest gas stations near your location, address, city or area. Enter the info yourself or use the phone’s GPS locator.

• CheapGasFinder (by Murphy USA): Search by city to find directions to a nearby Murphy USA or Murphy Express station. It shows unleaded and diesel fuel pricing and what amenities and services are available at the stations. You can compare prices of nearby gas stations and share your money savings via social networks and can even check into Whrrl and Foursquare without leaving the app.

• GasBuddy: You can find the cheapest gas in the U.S. and Canada by ZIP Code or GPS auto locator. It also returns information about whether a gas station offers an ATM, car wash or food store. Through the app, you can also use Google Maps to find your way. If you press your like and find yourself running extremely low on gas, the app’s “On Fumes” option finds the closest gas stations regardless of price.

• Poynt: This local search app helps you find gas stations and the best gas prices, and it gives you the ability to search by fuel grade. In addition, the app helps you find nearby restaurants, businesses and movies. It integrates with Open Table and makes it easy to buy movie tickets.

• Where: This app includes a gas price finder, but you can also use it to get personalized recommendations for places you’ll love, to find “perfect places” for you and a friend to go, find exclusive deals from local businesses and stay connected with your favorite places.

Please remember not to check gas prices while you’re driving!