Commuting in the city doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By using cashback-enabled gift cards, you can save on everyday transportation expenses—including taxis, gas, public transit, and rideshares. Platforms like Fluz, Ibotta, and Rakuten make it easy to turn your commute into a recurring cashback opportunity.

Why Use Gift Cards for Commuting?
Gift cards let you prepay for services at a discount. When you buy gift cards through a cashback app, you earn rewards instantly—and still use those cards the same way you normally would to pay for transportation.

Here’s how you can make the most of this strategy using today’s top cashback apps:

1. Fluz: Cashback for Taxis, Gas, and More
   Fluz is a standout platform for cashback on commuting. You can purchase gift cards for a wide range of transportation services, then apply them at checkout or within app-based rides.
   Top commuting-friendly merchants include:

• Earn cashback at Uber

• Get Lyft gift cards

• Shop discounted Shell gift cards

• Save on Chevron gas

• Use ExxonMobil cards

2. Ibotta: Offers for Fuel and Essentials
   While Ibotta is most commonly associated with groceries, it frequently features cashback offers for fuel purchases and travel accessories at gas station chains like Exxon and 7-Eleven. Simply open the Ibotta app, activate available offers, and upload receipts or link your loyalty card to start earning.
3. Rakuten: Rewards for Travel Essentials and Parking Apps
   Rakuten is perfect for online purchases, including ride credits, gift cards, and parking app services.
   You can:

• Get cashback on Lyft gift cards (when available)

• Use Rakuten’s links to platforms like SpotHero and ParkWhiz

• Earn on commuter gear from retailers like Best Buy or Walmart

Where to Buy Gift Cards Safely
Stick with secure providers like:

• Fluz’s official gift card marketplace

• Major merchant websites (e.g., Uber, Shell)

• Verified retailers on Rakuten’s gift card hub

Avoid any site offering “too good to be true” deals—these can lead to expired, fake, or deactivated gift cards.

Pro Tips for Managing Gift Cards:

• Use a wallet app like Gyft or CardPointers to track balances

• Label cards by service (e.g., “Gas – Chevron,” “Rideshare – Uber”) for faster access

• Set a monthly budget through apps like YNAB or Mint to stay on top of transit spending

By shifting your payment method to cashback gift cards, you can save money on your regular commute without changing how or where you travel. It’s a smart, simple strategy for turning routine costs into reliable rewards.