As spring and summer approach, road trippers will hit the highways in search of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. For C-stores, this seasonal influx of travelers represents a lucrative opportunity to increase sales and build customer loyalty. The keys to attracting road trippers to your C-store lie in understanding what they need and creating an experience that makes your store a must-stop destination.
To get a picture of the opportunities we have to capture revenue this year, take a look at these results from a recent survey:
- 56% of Americans plan to travel more in 2025 than they did in 2024.
- The average 2025 travel budget is a whopping $10,244–nearly twice 2024’s average of $5,300.
- 26% of vacationers are planning to avoid flying in 2025.
At H&S Energy, we work with C-store owners and managers to optimize their locations for maximum profitability.
6 Strategies for C-Stores to Optimize Vacation Season Sales
1. Create a Road Trip-Friendly Environment
Prioritize Cleanliness: Clean restrooms are one of the biggest factors influencing whether a traveler stops at your store—or keeps driving. Road trippers often seek out clean, well-maintained facilities, and a bad restroom experience can deter them from stopping in the future. Make cleanliness a priority by scheduling frequent restroom checks, stocking necessary supplies, and ensuring that your entire store is tidy and welcoming.
Offer Ample Parking and Easy Access: Travelers in RVs, large SUVs, or vehicles towing trailers need plenty of parking space. If your store has limited parking, consider optimizing the layout to accommodate larger vehicles. Clear signage directing traffic flow, designated RV or trailer parking, and well-lit areas make your store more appealing to road trippers.
Ensure Fast and Friendly Service: Speed is crucial for travelers who want to get back on the road quickly. A well-trained, friendly staff that provides quick service can make all the difference. Consider adding extra staff during peak travel times to ensure customers aren’t left waiting in long lines.
2. Stock the Right Road Trip Essentials
Fuel and Auto Care Products: Since road trippers depend on their vehicles, make sure your fuel station is well-stocked with all grades of gasoline, including premium and diesel options. Offering top-tier fuel brands and promoting any rewards programs can attract more travelers. Additionally, stocking essentials like motor oil, windshield washer fluid, and car cleaning wipes ensures drivers can maintain their vehicles on the go.
Travel-Friendly Snacks and Drinks: Snacking is a major part of the road trip experience, so variety is key. Stock your store with:
- Healthy snacks: Nuts, granola bars, protein bars, and fruit cups appeal to health-conscious travelers.
- Classic road trip treats: Chips, candy, beef jerky, and snack-size cookies remain top sellers.
- Cold beverages: A well-stocked cooler with bottled water, energy drinks, sports drinks, iced coffee, and soda ensures customers find their preferred drinks.
- Local specialties: Offering regional snacks or beverages gives travelers a taste of the area and makes your store memorable.
Grab-and-Go Meal Options: Many road trippers prefer quick meal options they can eat in the car. If your store offers fresh food, ensure you have a selection of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and hot food items like breakfast burritos or pizza. Well-labeled grab-and-go meals appeal to customers looking for a fast and satisfying meal.
Travel Necessities: A road trip often requires last-minute essentials. Stocking these items can encourage impulse purchases:
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Phone chargers and car adapters
- Travel-size toiletries
- First aid kits and pain relievers
- Travel pillows and blankets
3. Offer Road Trip Promotions and Discounts
Bundle Deals: Encourage customers to buy more by offering bundle deals, such as:
- “Fuel Up & Snack” combo deals with gas purchases
- Buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals on popular snacks or drinks
- Discounted travel kits with essentials like bottled water, hand sanitizer, and snacks
Loyalty and Rewards Programs: Road trippers appreciate rewards programs that help them save money. If your store has a loyalty program, ensure customers know about it by displaying signage at the pump and inside the store.
Social Media and App Promotions: Use social media and mobile apps to attract road trippers by advertising special discounts, highlighting local must-see attractions, or promoting in-store giveaways. If your store has an app, consider offering a special discount for new app downloads to increase engagement.
4. Make Your Store a Destination
Create a Unique Experience: Travelers are more likely to stop at a store that offers something special. Consider adding:
- A photo-worthy roadside attraction (a mural, oversized object, or unique landmark)
- A pet-friendly area with water bowls and waste bags
- A small souvenir section featuring local products, postcards, or apparel
Host Seasonal Events: Hosting mini-events or themed promotions can increase foot traffic. Ideas include:
- Summer BBQ weekends with free samples of local snacks
- Road trip trivia games with prize giveaways
- Seasonal promotions tied to major travel holidays
Leverage Local Partnerships: Partner with nearby tourist attractions, hotels, or campgrounds to cross-promote each other’s businesses. Display brochures, maps, or discount coupons for local activities to encourage travelers to explore the area.
5. Leverage Technology for Convenience
Upgrade Your Payment Options: Many road trippers prefer cashless payment methods. Ensure your store accepts mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay, as well as contactless credit card options.
Enhance Fueling Experience: Modernize your fuel station with pay-at-the-pump options, digital fuel receipts via mobile apps, and clear signage that helps customers fuel up efficiently.
Provide Free Wi-Fi: Travelers often look for locations where they can quickly check maps, book hotels, or connect with family. Offering free Wi-Fi encourages longer stops and increases the likelihood of in-store purchases.
6. Advertise Your Location to Road Trippers
Use Google My Business and Navigation Apps: Ensure your convenience store appears on Google Maps, Waze, and other navigation apps with up-to-date information, including fuel prices, amenities, and operating hours. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews to improve visibility.
Roadside Signage and Billboards: If your store is near a major highway, investing in well-placed billboards or clear roadside signage can significantly boost traffic. Highlight key features such as clean restrooms, great coffee, or unique food options.
Engage on Social Media: Attract travelers by using Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok to showcase your store’s road trip-friendly features. Post engaging content such as customer photos, road trip tips, and special promotions to draw attention from travelers planning their routes.
Get More Advice For Attracting Road Trippers to Your C-Store from H&S Energy
Spring and summer bring a surge of road trippers looking for convenience, comfort, and great experiences on the road. By optimizing your store with clean facilities, travel-friendly products, engaging promotions, and a welcoming atmosphere, you can attract more travelers and increase sales.
H&S Energy specializes in helping convenience store owners maximize their potential. If you’re looking for expert advice on how to enhance your store’s appeal and drive more business, contact us today to learn more about our proven strategies.
By taking these steps, your convenience store can become a must-stop destination for road trippers this vacation season!
