I far prefer to stop at a Starbucks than a fast food restaurant when I am on a long drive because, most of the time, I will pack my own snacks are simply want to get a drink. I'd rather have the extra caffeine of a coffee versus a soda and prefer the far-better taste of freshly prepared coffee than the "coffee" that comes out of a dispenser at the gas station convenience store. Starbucks also generally tend to have well-maintained bathrooms, which I appreciate.  But unless I really need to stretch my legs, I will find myself pulling up to the drive-thru window at many highway-side Starbucks. Driving thru takes about the same amount of time as going inside the store, with the added benefit that you do not have to get up. This is especially useful when it is cold outside and you don't want to put on several layers to walk a few hundred feet to the door.

Starbucks drive-thrus are often manned by one barista, who takes the orders and makes the drinks for the cars in line. The rest of the Starbucks staff will split the register and bar duties for the customers who come inside. Since only one person is working, serious problems can arise when the drive thru etiquette rules are violated. Here are a few simple tips that will make your transaction easier - and easier on the nerves of the people in line behind you.

• If you have a big order, go in to the store. The drinks will come up faster if they're made by a group of baristas than if they're made by the one barista at the window.
• If you have no idea what you want, or have never been to a Starbucks before, go inside. You'll have more time to read the menu.
• If you want a pastry, but don't know what type you want, go inside. Though the barista will tell you what is in the pastry case, it is much faster to browse them yourself than have the list ready to you multiple times.
• Please do not attempt to shush the barista at the speaker box when you are on your cell phone. Place your order, then resume your conversation.
• Most, if not all, Starbucks drive-thrus have a video monitor at the speaker box. You have been warned.