Fuel availability and station locations

Gasoline availability and quality differ significantly between Belarus and Russia: - **Belarus:** Generally good availability of gasoline (e.g., 95 octane) at major networks like 'Belarusneft'. No widespread shortages reported. - **Russia:** Significant shortages of gasoline (especially 95 octane) are reported, particularly on major routes like the M1 highway heading towards Moscow. Major brands like Rosneft may have empty pumps or only display diesel availability. Smaller, independent stations might have fuel, but major chains are preferred for reliability. - **Diesel:** Diesel fuel availability seems to be better across both countries. - **Recommendation:** If traveling from Belarus to Russia, ensure your vehicle is fully fueled before crossing the border, as finding gasoline in Russia can be challenging.

Fuel availability in Belarus is stable for passenger cars. For transit from Moscow to Belarus, fill up before crossing the border. On the return route (M1 towards Moscow), fuel shortages are reported at some stations; limits of 30 liters per refueling may apply. Apps indicating real-time fuel availability are often unreliable. Road tolls for cars under 3.5 tons registered in EAEU countries are free on Belarus highways.

Fuel is readily available in both Belarus and Russia, particularly along the M-1 highway. It is advisable to fill up your tank in Belarus before crossing the border into Russia to ensure sufficient fuel for the journey. Carrying fuel in canisters is permissible for personal use (up to 240 liters in containers not exceeding 60 liters each), but avoid excessive amounts. Border guards generally do not check for traffic fines; however, cameras at checkpoints may flag outstanding penalties.

Petrol prices in Belarus vary. For instance, AI-100 at Lukoil is around 3.03 BYN, and AI-98 at Belorusneft is 2.91 BYN. Higher octane fuels like 95 and 98 are not available at every station, possibly only at one in ten. Some stations, particularly Rosneft and Lukoil, may experience fuel shortages or have visible signs like cones or empty displays.

In Belarus, it is generally permitted to refuel gasoline into a canister at gas stations. There are no specific legal restrictions preventing this, despite anecdotal concerns from locals or taxi drivers.

Fuel availability on the route from Belarus to Russia via Bryansk is generally adequate, though some stations may have limited stock or be temporarily empty, particularly for 95-octane gasoline. It is advisable to be aware of potential limits per vehicle. Queues were not significant on recent travel.

For diesel fuel, Belarus is recommended as a good place to refuel, with advice to take at least 40 liters for peace of mind. While Moscow and its surroundings have diesel available, commercial stations may charge around 125-130 rubles per liter. Carrying an additional 20 liters in a canister is suggested as a precaution for the trip to Moscow, especially given a smaller fuel tank capacity (55 liters).

When driving to Belarus, fuel availability in the Pskov region can be challenging, especially near the border. In mid-July, only two Gazprom stations reported having fuel, with long queues. Near Nevel, a gas station is located 1 km after the border. If traveling via Polotsk, the first station is about 30 km from the border. With a 55L tank and 8L/100km consumption, reaching the first Belarusian station from St. Petersburg is feasible if driving conservatively. It is recommended to check fuel availability online using services like Yandex, Tinkoff, or 2GIS.

When traveling from Moscow to Vitebsk or Gomel, be aware of route options and petrol availability. The 'Varshavka' road does not go through Orsha; it is further south. For Vitebsk, the M1 highway with a subsequent turn is recommended. Petrol stations with 95-octane fuel are scarce between Moscow and Smolensk, with distances of 100-200 km between them. Fuel prices can be high, up to 105 rubles per liter. In Belarus, fuel availability is generally better but can have intermittent issues, particularly at Rosneft and Lukoil stations.

Fuel availability on the route from St. Petersburg to Belarus can be inconsistent. While some stations in the Leningrad region and St. Petersburg may have fuel (with limits), areas further along the R-23 route have shown significant scarcity of 95-octane gasoline. Diesel fuel was reported to be more available. It's recommended to carry extra fuel, such as in a canister, if unsure about reaching a refueling point.

Fuel availability on the M1 highway approaching Moscow can be limited, with potential for long queues or restrictions at some gas stations. As of recent reports, some stations have implemented a 20-liter limit per vehicle. It is advisable to plan refueling stops in advance and consider alternative routes or stations if possible.

Fuel availability in Belarus is generally stable, with no significant shortages or long queues reported at gas stations. Belarus is a net exporter of fuel, including to Russia. A typical car fuel tank should be sufficient to travel from Moscow to Minsk without needing to refuel, provided driving speeds are moderate (e.g., 90-100 km/h).

Fuel shortages have been reported on the M1 highway between Russia and Belarus, particularly closer to the Russian border. The situation has worsened recently, with stations running out quickly and long queues forming. Private fuel delivery services charge up to $2/liter. It is recommended to refuel in Belarus, especially for those residing in Moscow. While Belarusian stations generally have fuel, it's wise to carry a reserve. Russian border guards inspect for empty canisters upon entry into Belarus, and exporting fuel from Russia is prohibited.

Fuel prices near the Russian border with Belarus were observed around 69 rubles per liter for 95 octane gasoline at 'Rosneft'. 'Lukoil' had a queue of about 20 cars. One gas station on Tverskaya offered 95 octane at 100 rubles per liter. The user chose to fill up fully in Russia to avoid risks.

Regarding fuel for travel from Belarus to Russia: Fuel availability on the M-1 highway can be inconsistent, with some stations having fuel and others not, potentially leading to queues. Moscow may also experience fuel shortages. For cross-border fuel transport: Importing fuel in canisters from Russia into Belarus is generally prohibited. However, exporting fuel from Belarus to Russia in canisters is permitted without significant issues. Travelers have reported successfully transporting multiple canisters (e.g., 2x30L) without interference from border guards. It is advisable to check the latest regulations for specific fuel allowances and restrictions.