Filling stations are fairly easy to find in Belgium. Most small towns have at least one station, and there are 24-hour stations located at intervals along the Autobahn and major highways.

You will notice that fuel in Europe is a bit more expensive, currently about $7 a gallon. However, the cars in Europe are typically small and get great gas mileage and distances are fairly short, generally speaking. When comparing to costly train tickets (for the price of a two-hour train ride, you can fill your tank), expensive gas is less of a factor. You don`t need to travel far to enjoy Europe`s diversity.

Pumping gas in Europe is easy; the English word `self-service` is universal. Paying, however, may PROVE be more complicated. At some stations, you pump the gas first and then pay the cashier. At others, you pay at a central kiosk and then select your pump number. Some places offer full service.

Other stations are like the ones in the US, where you pay at the pump. But some of these machines don`t accept magnetic-stripe credit cards, and even if your US credit card has a chip, it might not work at the offline terminals common at gas pumps (be sure you know your card`s PIN in case you need to enter it). If your card doesn`t work, pay the cashier (with cash; in some cases they might be able to swipe your card). Note that gas stations can be unattended: For instance, if you`re traveling on rural highways, automated gas stations (which don't take cash) may be the only ones open on Sundays, holidays, and late at night. It`s best to fill up ahead of time.

Fuel prices are listed by the liter (about a quart, four to a gallon). As in the US, most cars take unleaded, but diesel is widely in use. In Europe, regular gas is marked `95` or E10 while super or premium gasoline is usually designated `98` or E5. Unleaded gas is called benzene, while diesel is known as diesel (ask about the proper local term when you rent your car).

Freeway gas stations are more expensive than those in towns, but sometimes only freeway stations are open. Giant suburban supermarkets often offer the cheapest gas.

Roads and Fuel
Belgian motorways are currently toll-free except for vehicles of of 3.5 tonnes or more.

Service Areas
There are service areas with a petrol station, restaurant, shop, showers and toilets, and sometimes a motel. Rest areas have picnic facilities.