How to spend less time in Costco gas lines

🚗 Take the inside track. Just like at a track meet, the inside lanes have the shortest distance. So even if it looks longer, there may be fewer cars.

🕵️‍♂️ Check the less-visible line. The queue everyone overlooks could be your quickest way through.

⛽ Try the passenger side. Don't wait for a pump that matches your gas cap's location. Costco's extra-long hoses let you fill up from either side of your car.

🕔 Skip shopping hours. You don't have to wait for the warehouse to open. Mission Valley's gas station operates from 4:30am–10pm on weekdays, giving you a window before and after shoppers arrive.

📱 Price-check before leaving. Costco's app shows gas prices and station hours. Compare with nearby options on GasBuddy before making a special trip.

🧮 Do the detour math. Saving 40 cents a gallon on a 15-gallon fill-up saves $6. Decide whether that's worth the extra driving and waiting.

Thanks to reader Ryan C. for some of these tips! Do you have hacks to save money on gas? Let us know. Email [email protected].