Let’s set the scene: You’re driving to Philadelphia International Airport, and everything’s going smoothly. You’ve packed your bags, said goodbye to your plants, and even checked in early for your flight. But then you glance at your car’s dashboard, and there it is—the dreaded low fuel light. Panic sets in as you realize you need to return your rental car with a full tank, or maybe you just want to fuel up before heading home. Either way, you need a gas station near Philadelphia Airport ASAP.
The last thing anyone wants to do is waste precious time driving around in circles, looking for a gas station while the clock is ticking down to your departure time. Whether you’re trying to avoid those rental car refueling fees or just want to gas up before you hit the highway, this guide is here to help you find the nearest and most convenient gas stations around PHL.
Let’s dive into the best places to fuel up, strategies to avoid unnecessary stress, and a few handy tips you might not have thought about (because we all know that things never go quite as planned when you’re heading to the airport).
The Gas Station Panic: Why It’s Real
We’ve all been there, driving toward the airport and feeling that familiar anxiety creeping in. Maybe you’re running a little late, or perhaps you just remembered that the rental car company will charge you what feels like a small fortune for not returning the car with a full tank.
According to USA Today, rental companies often charge $9.99 to $11.99 per gallon if you don’t refuel before returning the car. Ouch, right? It’s no wonder finding a gas station near the airport becomes a sudden priority. Even if you’re just trying to fill up your own car before catching a flight, there’s that sense of urgency—and the thought that maybe, just maybe, you’ll get stuck in traffic and miss your flight.
Where to Find Gas Stations Near Philadelphia Airport
Luckily, you don’t have to stress too much. There are several gas stations conveniently located near Philadelphia International Airport that can get you in and out without derailing your schedule. Here are the best options:
- Sunoco A-Plus (76 Industrial Hwy, Essington, PA)
Just a 7-minute drive from PHL, this Sunoco is one of the most convenient options for anyone heading to the airport from the south. Located right on Industrial Highway, it’s practically en route if you’re coming from I-95. Sunoco is open 24/7, so whether your flight is at 6 AM or midnight, you can count on this station to be there when you need it most. - Wawa (1500 Island Ave, Philadelphia, PA)
If you’re not from the Philly area, let me introduce you to Wawa—the region’s beloved convenience store chain that offers great coffee, sandwiches, and, of course, gas. This Wawa is located about 10 minutes from the airport and is a popular choice for travelers who want to grab a bite while fueling up. Plus, the prices here tend to be pretty competitive, so you’re not paying airport-adjacent markups. - Gulf (6714 Essington Ave, Philadelphia, PA)
Right off Essington Avenue, this Gulf station is just a short drive from the rental car return lots. It’s one of the most convenient gas stations for those rushing to return a rental car without paying those hefty refueling charges. While it’s not the most glamorous stop, it’s efficient, gets the job done, and you won’t have to go far out of your way. - BP (2385 W Oregon Ave, Philadelphia, PA)
A little further out but still within a 15-minute drive from the airport, this BP station is another option for travelers who want a reliable brand name and decent prices. It’s not right next to the airport, but if you’re coming from a certain part of the city, it might be more convenient based on your route.
Timing is Everything: Don’t Cut It Close
Let’s talk about timing. As much as it’s tempting to wait until the last possible moment to fill up, cutting it too close can turn into a disaster. We all know Murphy’s Law, right? The one that says if something can go wrong, it will—usually at the worst possible time, like when you’re trying to make a flight.
A survey from The Points Guy revealed that 23% of travelers have missed a flight due to unexpected delays, whether it’s from getting lost, traffic, or airport confusion. And let’s face it: Spending 15 minutes searching for a gas station can be just the kind of hiccup that adds to that stat.
Here’s a quick pro tip: Plan your gas station stop before you get too close to the airport. If you’re already racing against the clock, taking an extra five minutes earlier in your trip to fuel up could save you from panic later. Set aside time to refuel when you’re still on the highway and there’s less traffic. Once you get into the area surrounding the airport, the roads can get congested fast, especially during peak travel hours.
Why Rental Car Refuel Fees Are No Joke
You know those sneaky refueling fees I mentioned earlier? Let’s break it down. Returning your rental car with an empty tank could cost you almost double what you’d pay at a regular gas station. Rental companies charge for the “convenience” of refueling the car, and they do not mess around with their rates.
- Cost per gallon at the rental return: $9.99-$11.99 (on average)
- Cost per gallon at nearby gas stations: $3.50-$4.50 (depending on the station and current rates)
The difference? You could be paying three times as much per gallon if you don’t take a few extra minutes to refuel. So yes, that last-minute stop at the gas station really can save you more than just a few bucks—it might save your vacation budget.
The Local Wawa Obsession: More Than Just a Gas Station
Now, let’s circle back to Wawa, because if you’ve never experienced this regional gem, you’re in for a treat. It’s more than just a gas station—it’s a part of the Philly experience. Whether you’re grabbing a fresh hoagie or a delicious iced coffee, Wawa is known for making gas station stops feel almost enjoyable.
In fact, according to a USA Today poll, Wawa consistently ranks as one of the best convenience store chains in the country. So, if you’ve got time to spare, pulling into Wawa for gas and a snack is like hitting two birds with one stone—fuel for your car and fuel for you.
FAQs About Gas Stations Near Philadelphia Airport
Q: What’s the closest gas station to Philadelphia Airport?
A: One of the closest options is Sunoco A-Plus on Industrial Highway, about a 7-minute drive from the airport. It’s conveniently located if you’re coming from I-95.
Q: Are there gas stations open 24/7 near PHL?
A: Yes! The Sunoco A-Plus and Wawa near the airport are both open 24/7, so you can fuel up no matter what time your flight departs.
Q: Can I fill up my rental car near the airport?
A: Absolutely. There are several gas stations near the rental car return lots, including Gulf and Sunoco, both of which are within a short distance of PHL. Be sure to plan ahead so you don’t cut it too close to your drop-off time.
Q: Is it cheaper to refuel at the airport or nearby gas stations?
A: It’s almost always cheaper to refuel at nearby gas stations. Airport refueling services through rental car companies can charge up to $11.99 per gallon, while nearby gas stations typically charge standard local rates.
Final Thoughts: Fuel Up and Fly Without the Stress
So, next time you’re heading to Philadelphia International Airport and need to fuel up, you’ve got options—and not just any options, but convenient, reliable ones that won’t leave you panicking at the last minute. From Sunoco to Wawa, these gas stations are perfectly placed to help you fill up and get on your way.
Whether you’re returning a rental car, topping off your tank before a long drive home, or just making sure you’re ready for the road ahead, take a few minutes to plan your stop, save yourself some cash, and maybe even grab a snack. Because after all, no one wants to start (or end) their trip with an empty tank—or an empty stomach!