Saving Coin on Your European Vacay: Fuel Prices Compared
Locating Budget-Friendly Fuel Stations
Jumping into your car for that well-deserved Whitsun break? The fuel you pump up might just make or break your holiday budget. According to the latest fuel price data from the EU Commission, certain routes can help you save enough for an extra gelato at your destination. Let's check 'em out:
Southbound
Hitting the road southward? Fill 'er up in Austria if you're driving a gasoline vehicle, as it's 22 cents cheaper than Germany. Diesel, on the other hand, is 6 cents cheaper in Austria than Germany, but still more expensive in Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia. So, you may want to stretch that tank or make a brief detour for cheaper fuel. When heading to Slovakia, diesel prices are comparatively cheaper, even than in Germany.
Tip: ACAD recommends using more E10 fuel - and debunks a myth. Swiss fuel isn't your best bet, with prices higher than in Germany, Italy, or France. Those driving towards Italy should fill up their diesel tanks beforehand, as Italy is a teeny bit pricier.
Westbound
Gasoline in France is pretty much neck-and-neck with Germany. But, if you're heading to Spain, you can save a bundle in the destination country. Belgium and the Netherlands are more expensive for gasoline, but Luxembourg shines as the cheapest in the West, offering savings of 24 cents on super gasoline and 16 cents for diesel.
Eastbound
Easy peasy: Poland and the Czech Republic are the most economical when it comes to fuel prices in the nearby regions of Germany. Prices are an astonishing 35 cents cheaper for gasoline and 18 to 22 cents cheaper for diesel compared to Germany. If you're trekking towards the Baltics, you might still find cheaper fuel, but keep in mind it'll be pricier than in Poland. And for those driving through the Czech Republic en route to Hungary or Slovakia, refuel in the Czech Republic for the best bargain.
Northbound
Headed for Denmark? Fuel up before you cross the border, as super gasoline is 23 cents more expensive than in Germany, while diesel is 14 cents pricier. However, if you're venturing further to Sweden, fuel becomes much cheaper - super is 28 cents cheaper, and diesel 9 cents less expensive than in Germany.
Got Money on Your Mind?
The price discrepancies are usually due to different taxes and charges. Fluctuations in oil prices affect all countries, but these differences, based on May 26 data, are relatively consistent. That said, prices can vary from gas station to gas station, time of day, region, and whether you fill up on the highway or country road. Keep in mind that adjusting your travel route to save fuel might rarely pay off, considering the time and environmental costs. To save some dough, top off your tank in the evening before your journey, as prices are usually lower then.
Sources: ntv.de and dpa
- Fuel
- Gasoline price
- Diesel
- Europe
- Vacation
Enrichment Data:When planning a European getaway, fuel prices can significantly impact your expenses. Here's a comparison of gasoline and diesel prices in Germany and its neighboring countries:
Gasoline Prices
- Germany: Prices generally hover around the EU-weighted average of approximately €1.61 per liter[1].
- Austria, Poland, and Czechia: Are relatively cheaper than Germany at prices around €1.55, €1.36, and €1.36 per liter for gasoline, respectively[2].
- Bulgaria: Boasts the lowest prices in Europe at €1.19 per liter[3].
Diesel Prices
- Germany: Diesel prices are generally higher in Germany, often around €1.6 to €1.7 per liter[3].
- Austria: Is relatively expensive for diesel, with prices at €1.76 per liter[1].
- Poland and Czechia: Tend to have lower diesel prices, though specific recent figures are not provided.
- Bulgaria: Diesel prices are typically lower than in Western Europe.
Pro-Tip: Poland and the Czech Republic can be the most economical destinations for fuel, especially if you're driving through these countries. If you're planning a longer trip that includes Eastern Europe, Bulgaria could be an extremely cost-effective option for gasoline.
In relation to your European vacation, it's worthwhile considering a community policy to compare employment policies across various countries to determine the best destination for fuel savings. For example, Poland and the Czech Republic are known for their economical fuel prices, making them a promising choice for travelers seeking to stretch their vacation budgets. alternative lifestyles could also be considered, such as investing in electric vehicles to reduce fuel reliance, or choosing destinations with a lower carbon-intensive lifestyle. Additionally, employment policies might vary in countries with lower fuel prices, potentially offering better work-life balance during your travel.
