Summer's almost over; it's time to go on a road trip. Whether the trip itself is the vacation, or you're headed somewhere with a specific destination in mind, some of the most memorable moments will be stopping to sightsee, stretch your legs, and eat.
Of course there are classic road trip snacks like beef jerky, chips, and snack mix. But don't sleep on gas stations' and rest stops' prepared foods. Many have a cult-following for the unique items you can only find there.
With the help of Delish editors, I've rounded up the very best gas station food you should add to your list on your next trip. From regional favorites like boiled peanuts to Wawa's expansive sandwich menu, here's the very best food our country's gas stations have to offer. Because there's no better way to add excitement to a road trip than trying a new treat.
WaWa Cream-Cheese Stuffed Pretzels
Wawa arguably has the biggest cult-following amongst all gas stations. In addition to its traditional rest stop fare, it's known for its massive food menu with plenty of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and baked good options. The cream cheese-stuffed pretzels are one of the highlights. You can find them with regular cream cheese, along with sweet and jalapeño versions.
Buc-ee's BBQ Sandwiches
This Texas chain (which can be found in many Southern states) is known for a lot of things. One of them is barbecue. The massive stores serve a variety of foods, but the best is the BBQ sandwich. Round out your meal with a kolache.
Hot Fries
Hot fries are basically fry-shaped potato chips coated in a zippy spice mix. Look for beloved brands like Andy Capp's and Chester's.
Boiled Peanuts
Boiled peanuts have a deep history in several regions of the world. In the U.S., they have a cultural significance in the South, where enslaved people brought the practice from Africa. They're boiled in their shell in water with salt or a spice mix, which makes for a flavorful salty snack.
Casey's Breakfast Pizza
Casey's is known for pizza and breakfast. So naturally, the breakfast pizza is a favorite—it was mentioned plenty of times on this Reddit thread of the best gas station foods. Each pizza is topped with cheese and eggs, and you get the choose of bacon, sausage, veggie, or the option to customize. You can even swap cheese sauce with sausage gravy.
Buc-ee's Beaver Nuggets
Aside from the BBQ sandwiches, Buc-ee's Beaver Nuggets are one of their biggest hits. The crunchy puffs have a sweet and salty coating that diehard fans love.
Allsup's Burritos
The Southwest convenience store sells a variety of packaged and prepared food, but it's known for its road trip-ready burritos.
Tornados
Nope, not the weather. This is a delicious taquito-like snack. Tornados are sold at a variety of gas stations in those roller cases and come in several flavors.
QuikTrip's Egg Rolls
Speaking of food in the rollers, did you know QuikTrip sells egg rolls? You'll also find taquitos and hot dogs in their roller cases.
Slush Puppies
Now owned by Icee, you still might find some Slush Puppie frozen treats while you're on the road. It's a classic frozen carbonated drink flavored with syrups.
WaWa Chicken Cheesesteaks
WaWa's enormous menu has too many highlights to list, but it's famous for its wide variety of sandwiches. Trust us, try the Chicken Cheesesteak with bacon.
