Every road trip enthusiast knows the universal sign of roadside relief: the humble gas station. It’s a beacon of hope when your tank is on ‘E,’ your stomach is growling, and you’ve forgotten your phone charger – again. But wait! Before filling that cart with everything but the kitchen sink, try to play a game of “Gas Station Roulette.”
In this game, there are 12 things you should avoid buying at a gas station. Want to find out why? Buckle up because this detours into overpriced chargers, questionable hot dogs, and barely-there windshield wiper fluid. Let the adventure begin!
Perishable Foods
Beware of perishable foods at gas stations, like quick sandwiches and salads. The convenience may be tempting, but consider how long they’ve been sitting there.
“There are definitely a few things I’d avoid buying at a gas station,” says Peter Fischer, LV Casino CEO in Liechtenstein. “First on my list would be fresh food items like sandwiches or sushi. Gas stations aren’t really known for their gourmet kitchens, and these items may not be as fresh or safe as you’d hope.”
Electronics Accessories
Don’t be lured by the convenience of picking up a phone charger or headphones while pumping gas. These products often need more quality assurance and can even damage your devices.
Car Supplies
Avoid the car supplies aisle at gas stations like a reality TV obstacle course. While it may seem convenient, you’ll pay a high price for that convenience. Gas stations mark up these items significantly.
Instead, head to your local auto parts store for the same items at a fraction of the cost. Remember, gas stations are for fuel, not car essentials shopping.
Sunglasses
Those gas station sunglasses may look cool and come with a tempting price tag. But remember, UV protection is crucial, and these cheap pairs often fail to provide it. So, save your eyes and buy from a reputable source instead.
Gift Cards
Buying gift cards from gas stations can be risky. Scammers often record the card numbers and drain the funds before the recipient can use them.
Medications
Over-the-counter medicines from gas stations could be past their prime. Buying your medication from a pharmacy where stock rotation and expiration dates are stringently monitored is safer.
Skincare or Beauty Products
Buying skincare and beauty products from a gas station is like getting sushi from the same place – a risky move. These items may have been sitting on shelves for a long time, affecting their quality and effectiveness. To prevent your skin from becoming a testing ground, it is advisable to adhere to reputable brands from reliable retailers.
Snacks
There may be better choices than gas station snacks for a tasty treat. From stale chips to questionable jerky, their longevity is more about slow turnover than preservatives. Avoiding the snack aisle and finding your snack fix elsewhere is best!
Ice Cream
Gas stations could be better for storing frozen goods. Temperature fluctuations can cause ice cream to melt and refreeze, affecting taste and texture.
Fruits and Vegetables
Gas station fruits and vegetables often need more freshness and can be overpriced. It’s best to opt for local grocery stores or farmer’s markets for natural, fresh, and flavorful produce. Better safe and delicious than sorry and subpar!
Lotto Tickets
Lotto tickets may promise the allure of instant wealth, but the odds of winning big are astronomically low. Impulse buying at gas stations can lead to an unhealthy habit. So, unless luck is on your side, it’s best to steer clear of those shiny tickets near the cashier.
Bottled Beverages
Ah, the tempting allure of bottled beverages at a gas station—convenient, cold, and oh-so-tempting. However, it’s best to resist. These drinks are often overpriced compared to those in regular grocery stores. Remember, you’re paying for immediate gratification (and refrigeration costs). If you’re thirsty, carry a refillable water bottle with you. Not only is it economical, but it also helps reduce plastic waste.
So there you have it, folks—12 things you should think twice about before buying at a gas station. Here’s to making wiser, healthier, and more cost-effective choices!
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