Alright, so I actually wondered about this condom price thing last week after running out during a road trip. Just pulled into a random gas station around midnight feeling kinda awkward, but figured I’d make it an experiment. Let’s break down what went down.
The Gas Station Hunt
First I hit up two different gas stations near my place – not even fancy ones, just regular spots. Went straight to the counter because they always keep these locked behind the glass like they’re selling diamonds. Asked for the cheapest brand they had. Both clerks gave me that quick up-and-down look before sliding open the case.
- First station: Dude hands me a 3-pack of no-name “Pro-Tex” condoms. Rings up at $5.99 plus tax. For three! Almost choked.
- Second station: Found a single Trojan for $3.49. One. Single. Condom. Told the cashier “Nah man, that’s wild” and walked out.
At this point I’m thinking drugstores gotta be cheaper, right?
Drugstore Recon Time
Next afternoon I drove to the pharmacy area near downtown. Hit three spots: big chain place, local mom-and-pop shop, and one of those discount stores. No awkwardness here since condoms just sit on shelves next to cough drops and vitamins.
- Big chain store: Grabbed a 12-pack of Trojans off the rack. Scanned at $12.99 – basically a buck each.
- Local pharmacy: Their house brand 10-pack was $8.49. Even better.
- Discount store: Boom! 16-pack of LifeStyles for $9.97. No tax sale too.
The Straight-Up Ripoff
Here’s the math that blew my mind: if I bought the exact same Trojan condom pack from the drugstore vs gas station? At the gas station you’d pay around $40 bucks for 12 condoms buying singles. That’s straight robbery. Even the cheapo gas station pack was charging double per condom.
Why? My theory: gas stations bank on three things – your desperation, embarrassment, and darkness outside. Can’t just walk out empty-handed at 2am. Drugstores know you’ll price-check, so they keep it halfway reasonable.
Last takeaway? Keep condoms stocked like toilet paper, never pay gas station prices unless it’s literal do-or-die. That discount store run saved me enough for tacos afterward.
