– Over 42.3 million people are expected to travel by air, car, bus, and more for Memorial Day weekend.– Gas prices are nearly a dollar less per gallon than last year, and Americans will spend $1.6 billion less on gas this year.– Annual oil output in the United States is projected to hit an all-time high.– Drivers in Missouri are paying the eighth lowest average price in the country for unleaded gas.– Gas prices will continue to fluctuate as the weekend progresses due to high demand.
As reported in KOMU News, Memorial Day weekend is a time for travel and activity for many, though that can come with costs. This year, traveling numbers were expected to be up compared to previous years, with more than 42.3 million people planning to travel by air, car, bus, and more for this Memorial Day weekend.
AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria stated that “with 37.1 million Americans expected to take a road trip this weekend, roadways and gas stations will be busy.” He also mentioned that drivers are paying nearly a dollar less per gallon than last year when fuel prices were on their way to record-setting levels. However, gas prices are not cheap compared to gas prices in past years, but they’re still miles away from the record high of $5.02 a gallon last June.
GasBuddy reports that Americans will spend $1.6 billion less on gas this Memorial Day weekend compared to last year. To wind everything up, oil supply has improved, including in the United States where annual oil output is projected to hit an all-time high.
Despite the high demand for gas this weekend, drivers in Missouri are paying the eighth lowest average price in the country for unleaded gas at about $3.22 per gallon. Columbia is sitting just above that with a price of $3.25 per gallon for unleaded fuel. However, AAA warns that gas prices will continue to fluctuate as the weekend progresses due to high demand.
Employees at Midway Truck Stop off of I-70 West have seen a heavy amount of foot traffic on Friday. “It’s been busier than usual,” said Sonya Rasa-Jones, an employee of Midway Truck Stop. “Of course, it’s a holiday weekend. We’re usually busy anyway, but we’re busier than usual.”
While Memorial Day weekend is a time for fun and relaxation, it’s important to keep in mind the costs that come with it. By being aware of gas prices and fluctuations, travelers can save money and make the most out of their holiday weekend.
