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Travelers with RVs know how valuable a good stop can be. Fuel that’s easy to access, food worth eating, and a parking lot that doesn’t feel like threading a needle.
Buc-ee’s and Love’s have built their reputations on that experience, but they’re not the only game in town. This comes from a die-hard Love’s fan!
Three other chains are making moves that RVers should notice: TravelCenters of America, Maverik, and Wawa’s new and growing network of larger travel centers. Each brings its own character and amenities, and all are worth checking out if you come across one on your route.
TravelCenters of America (TA)
TravelCenters of America has been a steady presence on U.S. highways for decades. With more than 280 locations, it remains one of the most reliable stops for travelers running large RVs. Many TA sites have wide fueling lanes that make pulling in and out far less stressful than squeezing into a standard gas station. Parking is typically generous, and some locations include spots where RVs can stay for the night.
TA also caters to more than just fuel. Many locations have propane refills, and a number of them include RV dump stations. Their travel stores stock a range of supplies, from maintenance items to small accessories you might need while on the road. Several sites even feature repair services.
Food options at TA vary but usually include both quick-service counters and sit-down restaurants. Amenities like showers, laundry, and pet areas can make a stop there feel like a practical reset during a long trip. While it doesn’t have the hype of Buc-ee’s, TA’s nationwide reach and RV-friendly setup make it a dependable option when planning routes.
Maverik: Adventure’s First Stop
Maverik has built its reputation across the mountainous West, where outdoor travel is a way of life. With more than 400 locations in states like Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado, it’s a familiar sight for people towing campers or driving motorhomes into national parks and mountain towns. The stores are designed with space in mind, making it easier to maneuver longer vehicles when fueling or parking.
The Maverik brand leans heavily into an outdoor adventure theme. Inside, you’ll find made-to-order burritos, sandwiches, and pizza along with a strong snack selection that feels more road-trip friendly than a typical gas station. The chain’s “Adventure Club” rewards program can also be attractive for frequent travelers looking to save on fuel.
While Maverik isn’t as widely known outside its core region, its combination of big parking areas, pretty good food, and an RV-friendly layout makes it a good choice for anyone traveling through the western states. It’s especially appealing to RVers who prefer to avoid the congestion that can come with more nationally recognized stops.
Wawa’s New Travel Centers
Wawa has long been a favorite stop for drivers along the East Coast, known for its made-to-order hoagies, fresh coffee, and clean stores. Until recently, many locations were built with cars in mind and would absolutely feel tight for anyone pulling a trailer. That’s changing. The company has been expanding into larger Wawa travel centers, designed with bigger lots and easier access for larger vehicles, including RVs.
These new sites feature expanded fueling options and plenty of parking space. The food and drink offerings remain the same fan favorites, but now they’re paired with layouts that make getting in and out far less stressful for longer vehicles. Locations are also moving beyond the traditional Mid-Atlantic footprint, with new stores in Florida and plans for states such as North Carolina, Alabama, and Kentucky.
For RVers traveling the East Coast or venturing into the Southeast, Wawa’s new travel centers will be a reliable alternative to the usual travel stops. They may be hard to find right now (there’s only one at the time of publishing this), but the company has plans to grow this network of travel centers.
Why These Chains Deserve a Spot on Your Route
TravelCenters of America, Maverik, and Wawa’s new travel centers fill gaps that Buc-ee’s and Love’s don’t always cover. And unless you’re just stopping for snacks, they all beat Buc-ee’s as being an RV-friendly destination, in my opinion.
TA gives you nationwide coverage, RV amenities (propane, dump stations, etc.), and the comfort of knowing you can find fuel, food, and even repairs almost anywhere. Maverik offers an outdoor-oriented experience with roomy parking and better access through mountain states where other major stops may be sparse. Wawa’s shift toward larger, RV-friendly sites brings an East Coast favorite into the travel-center category, adding more options for those heading south or along the Atlantic.
Each of these brands continues to invest in larger lots and services that benefit RVers. While they may not have the marketing buzz of Buc-ee’s, or the name recognition of Love’s, they’re building a network of stops that make long-distance travel more practical and comfortable.
Final Thoughts for RV Travelers
Long drives feel different when you know where you can comfortably stop. TA, Maverik, and Wawa’s newer travel centers bring dependable fuel, roomy lots, and good food options. They’re not trying to be tourist attractions like Buc-ee’s; instead, they focus on making travel with a larger vehicle easier.
If you plan ahead and check apps for details like dump stations or propane, these stops can simplify trips and cut down on stressful parking situations. For RVers who spend long days behind the wheel, having more than one reliable option makes the road feel a little less uncertain.
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