Is the fuel price at service areas the same as in urban areas?
3 Answers
Highway service area gas stations operated by the same company in the same region have fuel prices identical to those outside. Relevant knowledge about highway service areas: 1. Definition: Highway service areas, also known as highway service stations, are typically located every 30-60 kilometers along domestic highways. Their facilities include accommodation (including parking), dining, refueling, and vehicle repair services. 2. Additional services at service areas: Generally, a full tank for small passenger vehicles can cover 500-800 kilometers. In case of running out of fuel, emergency phones are available every 1-2 kilometers outside the highway barriers. Service areas offer services such as fuel delivery, towing, and repairs. If no phone is nearby, you can also dial the local area code +122 for assistance.
After driving for so many years, I've noticed that gas prices at highway service areas are usually higher than those in urban areas, averaging about 0.5 to 1 yuan more per liter. The main reason is the unique location of service areas, which see high traffic volumes. Businesses need to cover high rental and operational costs, so the markup is normal. For example, when I refuel at service areas near Beijing suburbs, the prices are always higher than at urban gas stations, sometimes even more outrageous during peak hours. But then again, refueling at service areas is convenient and reliable, saving detour time in emergencies. My advice is to fill up in the city before long trips—it saves money and reduces risks. If you're running low on fuel, service areas serve as a backup option; though pricier, they ensure safety. Overall, planning refueling stops ahead and using navigation tools effectively can make the price difference a non-issue.
When I first started driving, I also thought gas prices at service areas should be similar to those in the city, but they always turned out to be significantly more expensive. Probably because service areas are conveniently located on highways, businesses dare to raise prices, especially during holiday traffic jams when the prices are painfully high. For example, last time I was on a business trip, I ended up spending over ten yuan more filling up at a service area, instantly feeling like I got a bad deal. The upside is that service areas have dense gas station coverage, so you won’t have to run your legs off, and in emergencies, a quick refuel can be a lifesaver. Nowadays, I use mobile apps to check gas prices and try to fill up in the city whenever possible. If I absolutely have to refuel at a service area, I choose off-peak hours to minimize losses. Simply put, service area gas is pricey but convenient, while city gas is cheaper but requires planning. After driving a few times, you’ll figure out the tricks.
