Service stations in the US

[nic3c]

I'm going on a road trip around the southern US. Do they have service stations like we have here or are they just those truckers cafes like you see in the movies? (Hopefully where they all don't turn round and look at you funny!)

[Clanad]

There are many small service stations in the U.S. The truck stops that your reference though, are usually always located near the Interstate Highway System which is routed on the outskirts of towns and cities. I do find that they are as good as smaller ones and they welcome autos as well. The trucks are segregated to one side, usually, since they all use diesel fuel) Most of the smaller service stations are associated with convenience store. Lately, we (here in the western U.S.) see a lot of BP (British Petroleum) service stations... Welcome to the U.S., by the way!

[dannydingbat]

Some will insist on payment before you fill with petrol.

[nic3c]

Thanks for the info. Are they happy for you to use the restrooms or are you expected to buy something?

[dzug]

You'll find few service areas actually on the interstates (motorways) - they are usually just off them at junctions. Approaching the junction you will see a sign (maybe out of date...) as to which petrol companies and restaurants, etc, are at the junction.

As to use of restrooms, the smaller ones won't like you using them without being a customer and may even deny having one. The larger ones probably won't notice or care. Much the same as here.

[Toureman]

No there nothing like the ones here, the ones in the USA are much cleaner, cheaper, friendly service, good food, the list is endless.

[nic3c]

Cool, thanks!