4 Last-Minute Gift Ideas Found at Gas Stations

Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or other occasion, we've all had last-minute moments where we need to purchase a gift. If you're short on time, you can still find nice gift ideas at quick stop gas stations. Gas stations with large convenience stores give you plenty of gift options. Learn about the choices and ways to create unique gift options.

1. Movie Snack Collection

Create a fun movie-themed gift set with snacks and gifts from a gas station store. One of the go-to items are bags of popcorn. You can find traditional buttered popcorn along with flavors like cheddar cheese. You can also browse through king-sized candy options to provide a nice sweet treat to go with the movies.

In the cooler section, you can pick out a couple of drinks to go with the snacks. Check if the gas station sells DVD or Blu-Ray movies. Some gas stations will sell movies near the cash register. You can select an older favorite or a newer movie the person hasn't seen. If the gas station has a movie rental kiosk, you can often purchase used movies from there as well.

2. Lottery Options

Gas stations are known for their lottery options and a lottery gift can potentially turn into an even bigger present. One of the quickest options is to purchase instant scratch tickets. If you want to put a little extra into the present, then you can purchase lottery tickets that add up to the person's age.

For example, if a person is turning 25, then you could purchase $25 worth of tickets. Some instant scratch tickets are sold for $25 or you can purchase smaller amounts that add up to the full amount.

You can also purchase traditional lottery tickets. With a purchase, you select custom numbers. Associate the numbers with the person's birthday for a nice added touch. You can tuck all of the tickets into a birthday card.

3. Gift Cards

Many gas stations have gift card options. Some will include large collections of retail gift cards for both in-person and online destinations. You can select a restaurant, video game card, or shopping destination. If you find lower dominations, you can purchase multiple gift cards to build a nice set.

Some gas stations may just have gift cards for the gas station itself. A gas station gift card is an ideal purchase. The gift cards can be used for gas or food inside the gas station. If the person is turning 16 or recently started driving, then the gas gift card can go a long way in providing them extra money to drive and get around.

4. Road Trip Kit

If someone is planning a road trip or vacation soon, then you can shop at a gas station to create a unique road trip gift. Start the gift off with a gas station gift card, and then browse the store to find useful items for the trip. If there's a small electronics section, you can purchase car phone chargers and cables. The cables are ideal for charging multiple devices while on the road.

You can also pick out some road trip snacks and smaller items like packs of gum. Also look for travel items. For example, you may find small packs of ibuprofen, sunscreen lotion, or hand sanitizer. Package all the items together in a gift box or bag. The person who receives the road trip kit can leave the whole package in their car for the duration of the trip.

For more gift ideas, visit one of our Biltmore Oil short stop stores. We have several locations in the North Carolina area and can provide you with a lot of last-minute gift options along with everyday needs like gas, coffee, and snacks.