A recent survey found that 58% of Americans consistently choose their favorite gas station instead of going to the nearest or cheapest gas station. There are many reasons why people are attracted to a particular gas station, but there is no doubt that some people have a cult following.
One might think that a gas station is just a place to fill up on gas, use the restroom, or get a (questionable) snack, but according to a survey of 1,011 participants: , payless powerIt turns out that Americans have strong feelings about gas stations. And who doesn’t like delicious slurpees at 7-Eleven and unmistakable hot dogs from Costco’s food court?
Why Gas Stations Are More Than Just Gas Stations
In the early 1900s, when the automobile was on the rise, a full tank meant parking. curbside pump. But as cars became a staple rather than a fad, roadside pumps became a problem. Drive-in stations have emerged as the new norm as they were causing traffic jams.
Meals and other conveniences soon followed when business-minded owners realized they could make more money if they offered road trippers snacks along with their fuel. Today, Americans are looking for stations that have what they need most: clean restrooms, delicious snacks, and, of course, affordable gas.
as Mikkel Woodruff sometimes home sometimes sailing “Depending on where I’m driving on the east coast, I go to either Wawa or Sheetz. The bathrooms at Wawa and Sheetz are always the cleanest and most comfortable to use while traveling. and usually drive between New York and North Carolina or North Carolina and Florida, so I’m assuming I need to go to the bathroom or fill up with gas at similar intervals. has reliable snacks, dining options, and affordable gas, meaning it’s truly a one-stop shop and a break along the way.”
Americans go far for their favorite fuel
Woodruff isn’t the only one willing to add travel time instead of filling up at what he deems the best gas station. In fact, according to Payless Power’s research, Buc-ee gas station fans are prepared to drive up to 21 minutes to find their favorite beaver-themed store.
Costco members are similarly happy to add mileage to their trips if it’s refueling at the iconic warehouse store.as Steve Morrow paddle about “Gas stations are a joke in our family. You drive past 100 gas stations to a Costco gas station and use your Costco Rewards card.”
In fact, only 26% of survey respondents said they would choose a gas station by distance. This means that the majority are willing to extend their trip if they stop at their preferred stand.
From Pablo Fetchino happiness function says, “We stop by Love’s all the time. We also have the app and drove from Tulsa, Oklahoma earlier this summer. Apalachicola, Florida, save 10 cents per gallon when you use the app. Loves was well equipped and his wife was happy with the clean toilets. I also like that there is a good space for dog walking. If Loves doesn’t exist, look for Sam’s Club. ”
Popular pumps and their features
Both regional and national chains have a cult following. Costco, Labs, Shell, 7-Eleven, and Wawa are the top five gas stations popular with Americans, according to a Payless Power survey.
However, these nationwide chain stations aren’t the only places that travelers want to stop by.
Buc-ee stations, for example, draw crowds with their signature beaver nuggets and chocolate fudge.Texans are so loyal to this toothy beaver treat that Plano entrepreneurs Chris Kellner I set up an entire business shipping Buc-ee themed merchandise and preserved foods to Texans nationwide.
Casey’s is another gas station convenience store building a loyal following of food-passionate fans. Surprisingly, this red roof pit stop is now very popular and 5th largest pizza chain in the United States
Gas Station Loyalty: Find Your Refueling Favorites
Gas stations have been fueling Americans and their cars since humble beginnings as street light pumps. truck for over a century. Whether the traveler is a loyal Costco member, a Wawa fan, or a Love devotee, these roadside stops are a quintessential part of road trips and American life in general.
Whether it’s traveling up to 21 miles for your favorite station or having certain companies ship snacks across the country, it’s clear that Americans take pit stops seriously.
This article was created by happiness function Syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
Ashley is a nationally syndicated freelance travel writer carving out a niche in the world of adventure travel. Her work has been featured on MSN, Wealth of Geeks, RV Industry Association and more. She specializes in writing about road trips, camping and hiking. Ashley has traveled all over the world and grew up in the western United States. At an early age she learned how the simple act of spending time outside can make us happy.she is also the founder of happiness functionis a travel website that brings happiness through outdoor recreation.please follow her twitter.