Brace yourselves, drivers: fuel prices are on the rise, and the Middle East conflict could send them soaring to record highs. But here’s the silver lining—there are strategic spots where you can still fill up without breaking the bank. Amid growing fears that the war in the Middle East will trigger unprecedented fuel costs, experts have pinpointed the best petrol stations to help you dodge these hikes. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about where you fill up, but when and how you approach it.
The cost of crude oil has already surged, prompting warnings that prices at the pump could spike in a matter of days. AA president Edmund King puts it bluntly: “Pump prices in the coming weeks will inevitably increase, possibly shooting back up to where they were at the start of the year.” To put that into perspective, a litre of petrol averaged 135.7p at the beginning of 2026, compared to a low of 131.9p just last month. That’s a difference that hits hard, especially for those on tight budgets.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While some experts urge drivers to rush to supermarket forecourts for lower prices, others argue that panic buying could exacerbate the problem. Luke Bosdet, the AA’s spokesperson on pump prices, suggests supermarkets like Asda, Morrisons, and Sainsbury’s tend to hold their prices down longer. For instance, Asda currently charges an average of 129.4p per litre for petrol, making it the cheapest option. However, with the government’s Fuel Finder tool gaining traction, drivers will soon have real-time access to local fuel prices, leveling the playing field.
Here’s the kicker: Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, sparked by tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel, have already sent Brent crude oil prices soaring by 13%. Yet, the AA advises against panic buying, emphasizing that price increases take time to reach the pump. Plus, with spring around the corner, car fuel consumption naturally drops as engines don’t have to work as hard. Remember the chaos in September 2021 when panic buying led to long queues and fuel shortages? That’s a scenario no one wants to repeat.
So, what’s the smart move? Fill up at supermarkets for now, but stay informed using tools like Fuel Finder. And here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is relying on supermarket forecourts a sustainable solution, or should drivers focus on reducing fuel consumption altogether? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that could drive real change.
