U.S. shoppers still spend money. But many change how they shop. Higher gas prices squeeze their budgets. Retail leaders and experts say the changes are small so far. But they spread unevenly across income groups. Lower-income shoppers cut back first. Tax refunds help spending for now.

Some drivers change fuel habits. Trevor Chapman lives in West Hills, California. He and his wife now plan gas stops around Costco. They also shop more online for food. They want to avoid impulse buys. Walmart CFO John David Rainey says customers buy less than 10 gallons per trip. Sam’s Club members do this too. He says this happens for the first time since 2022. Costco says members top up more often.

The pressure also hits convenience stores. Pump transactions fell nearly 10% in March and April. In-store sales dropped 10.4%. The National Association of Convenience Stores says this. Restaurants hold up better. But McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski says gas prices will not bring back lower-income customers. They already pulled back. Experts say spending moves toward value stores, grocery stores, dollar stores, and warehouse clubs.

Shoppers also become more careful in stores. Stew Leonard says customers follow shopping lists more closely. Sophie Tolsdorf lives in Kentucky. She buys meat in bulk. She chooses whole fruit. She also cuts back on dog treats. Circana says U.S. retailers sold 6% fewer non-grocery products in late April and May. This is lower than a year earlier. Housewares, clothing, footwear, and sports equipment are weak.