20th May 2026
For drivers in Caithness, the question isn’t abstract. When global oil markets twitch, prices at the pumps in Wick and Thurso often move faster and higher than the Scottish average. With Brent crude still trading around $110 per barrel, and the UK’s controversial new fuel‑import exemption only partially stabilising supply, it’s reasonable to think ahead.
Here’s the simple truth
You don’t need to hoard fuel — but keeping your tank in the upper half is a smart, low‑stress precaution.
Why topping up makes sense right now
Fuel price volatility
Prices have already risen sharply due to the Middle East conflict and the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz. Any further escalation could push Brent toward $115–$120, which would put Caithness diesel comfortably above £2.00/litre.
Rural price lag
Caithness stations often adjust prices more quickly on the way up than on the way down. A sudden wholesale spike can show up locally within 24–48 hours.
Limited competition
With fewer stations and no supermarket price‑war effect, Caithness drivers don’t benefit from the buffering effect seen in Inverness or Aberdeen.
Supply chain fragility
Long delivery routes mean any disruption — weather, tanker delays, refinery issues — hits rural areas first.
What “topping up” should mean — and what it shouldn’t
Do:
Keep your tank above half — it protects you from sudden price jumps.
Fill up when prices dip, even slightly.
Plan ahead if you rely on long commutes or rural roads.
Don’t:
Panic‑buy.
Store fuel at home (unsafe and unnecessary).
Queue or hoard — that creates the very shortages people fear.
This is about sensible resilience, not stockpiling.
What could push prices higher in the coming weeks
Brent crude staying above $110
If the Iran–Hormuz crisis worsens, analysts warn of another surge.
UK’s new import licence still settling
Allowing diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian crude in India may stabilise supply — but markets are still adjusting.
Seasonal demand
Summer travel increases demand for petrol and jet fuel, tightening supply.
Refinery maintenance cycles
Several European refineries are entering maintenance periods, reducing output.
Bottom line for Caithness
You don’t need to rush to the pumps.
But keeping your tank topped up — sensibly, gradually, and without panic — is a practical way to protect yourself from sudden price spikes.
In a region where fuel is already 10–15p above the Scottish average, and where long distances are unavoidable, a little foresight goes a long way.