When I’m on the road, one thought is never far behind the wheel: gas. Not in a, “fuel for the soul” kind of way — but, the very literal, please-don’t-let-me-run-out-in-the-middle-of-nowhere kind.
Now, the van isn’t exactly a fuel-sipping Prius, but it’s not a full-on gas-guzzling monster either. We exist somewhere in that awkward middle ground where I’m always aware of gas stations… like they might disappear at any moment if I don’t appreciate them enough.
In more populated areas, I’ve got options — and opinions. I love Sheetz. It’s got everything: gas, a clean bathroom (a true luxury on the road), Vitamin Water (my ride-or-die), Lenny & Larry’s cookies, and my newest obsession: Clio yogurt bars. It’s also where I realize all the things I forgot to pack — fire starters, pain reliever, tissues, a flashlight… possibly common sense.
I’ve flirted with others — Love’s, WaWa, Marathon, RaceTrac, Royal Farms — but Sheetz has my heart.
Then my uncle enters the chat: “You have to try
Buc-ee’s. It’s like Sheetz… but dialed to 11.”
He was not exaggerating.
I pulled in and was immediately confronted with approximately 4,000 gas pumps. I don’t know the actual number, but it felt like I had entered a fueling theme park. Inside? Absolute chaos — snacks, souvenirs, brisket, and things I didn’t know I needed. I blacked out somewhere between the jerky wall and the bakery section. Vitamin Water? Forgotten. Yogurt bars? A distant memory. I emerged 45 minutes later, slightly dazed and holding items I don’t recall choosing.
It was impressive. It was overwhelming. It was… a lot.
Fast forward to my current trip in the Florida Gulf, where I’ve traded convenience for “character.” Smaller roads, fewer people, and exactly zero Sheetz. At one point, I gratefully rolled into what can only be described as a former Shell station — complete with a broken-down exterior and a women’s restroom proudly labeled “Out of Order (Sorry for the inconvenience).”
I made a game-time decision and used the men’s room. (We’re not going to unpack that here.)
But — plot twist — it had a Subway inside. And honestly? In that moment, it felt like fine dining.
Somewhere along the way, I started asking people about their favorite gas stations like it’s a totally normal personality trait. I’m still Team Sheetz, but I’m open to being persuaded. Regional loyalties run deep in the gas station world, and I respect that.
So now I’m curious — what’s your go-to gas/convenience store, and why? Because clearly, this is the kind of hard-hitting research I’m committed to.
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