Brace yourself, drivers: the Middle East conflict is threatening to send fuel prices soaring to unprecedented heights. But here's the silver lining—there are still ways to dodge these impending hikes, and we've got the inside scoop. The key? Knowing where to fill up your tank.
Amid growing fears that the war in the Middle East could trigger record-breaking fuel prices, experts have pinpointed the best petrol stations to keep costs down. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about where you go, but when and how you adapt to these changes.
Here’s the deal: The cost of crude oil has already surged, and AA president Edmund King warns that pump prices will inevitably rise in the coming weeks, potentially reaching levels seen earlier this year. To put it in perspective, a litre of petrol averaged 135.7p at the start of 2026, compared to a low of 131.9p just last month. That’s a jump no one wants to pay for.
But don’t panic—there’s a strategy. Luke Bosdet, the AA’s pump price expert, suggests heading to supermarket forecourts. Why? Because supermarkets tend to hold their prices down longer than traditional petrol stations. For instance, Asda currently leads the pack as the cheapest option, charging an average of 129.4p per litre for petrol and 138.7p for diesel. Morrisons and Sainsbury’s follow closely behind, offering petrol at 129.8p and 129.9p per litre, respectively.
But here's where it gets controversial: While supermarket forecourts are a safe bet now, the government’s new Fuel Finder tool promises to level the playing field by revealing all the cheapest local stations. Does this mean the end of supermarket dominance? Only time will tell. In the meantime, Tesco remains a solid choice for diesel drivers, charging 139.8p per litre, with Sainsbury’s close behind at 139.1p.
The recent 13% spike in Brent crude oil prices, triggered by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran-US-Israel conflict, has everyone on edge. However, the AA urges drivers not to panic buy. “There’s no need to refuel differently than usual,” they assure. “Price increases take time to reach the pump, and with spring around the corner, car fuel consumption naturally drops.”
Remember the chaos in September 2021? Long queues formed as drivers panic-bought fuel over fears of a lorry driver shortage. Let’s not repeat history. Instead, stay informed, plan strategically, and keep an eye on tools like Fuel Finder to stay ahead of the curve.
Now, we want to hear from you: Do you think supermarket forecourts will remain the go-to option, or will the Fuel Finder tool change the game? And how are you preparing for these potential price hikes? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s spark a conversation!
