As fuel costs rise, travelers are finding creative ways to manage their budgets, including using apps, adjusting local transit methods, and modifying travel plans while still prioritizing summer trips.
Rising gas prices are prompting some drivers to rethink travel spending, though many motorists say they still plan to hit the road during the busy summer travel season.
A family celebration for Stephen Decker was postponed in West Virginia, a change he said made financial sense as fuel costs climb.
"Family thing, changed plans, but definitely a longer drive to the East Coast would have cost you a pretty penny," Decker said. Molly Hart, a spokesperson for AAA Chicago, said higher gas prices are not deterring many travelers from taking summer trips.
"People want to travel. Even with high gas prices, it's a great time to see family and friends. They are just making different accommodations," Hart said. Hart said motorists are finding ways to offset travel costs, including saving money on lodging and food.
She also recommended vehicle maintenance before a trip to improve fuel efficiency.
"You want to make sure your tires are not under inflated that eats up extra gas, and if you have excess weight or a luggage rack on top, take it off," Hart said. Cortez Johnson said it costs nearly $100 to fill up his SUV. While he has not changed his vacation plans, he has adjusted how he gets around locally.
"I went out and got a senior pass from CTA. At first, it was $2.10. I didn't have the senior pass, so I said, I'm going take the train downtown to Northwestern, because it's a straight shot," Johnson said. Other motorists are relying on technology to find lower prices.
James Evan Cook said he uses gas price apps to help plan his trips and identify the best fuel deals.
"The price goes up, I'm going to shop, around. So, I think it's really an effective way to find a deal and plan your route," Cook said. Hart also recommended combining errands with a relative or friend to reduce transportation costs. Johnson said he often chooses to walk when traveling short distances, another strategy to save money as gas prices continue to rise.
Flight school pilot jumps to his death midair, leaving 22-year-old student to land plane
Please follow us on Google to support usGas Prices Travel Inflation Transportation Budgeting
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Dry Creek Interchange opens Friday, giving Utah County drivers new I-15 accessDrivers in southern Utah County will have a new way to access I-15 beginning Friday as the long-awaited Dry Creek Interchange opens at 8 a.m.
Read more »
What to know about Freedom Fuel Network, offering cheaper fuel in Pennsylvania, New JerseyPresident Donald Trump says this privately owned network will help drivers save money at the pump.
Read more »
Squint, and this new MG almost looks like a Ferrari PurosangueRakish new electric crossover will make production – but won't necessarily be sold to UK drivers
Read more »
Proposal would allow drivers to trade personal data for potentially lower insurance ratesAB 311 would change California insurance law by allowing drivers to opt in to being tracked through telematics, which transmits data to insurance companies.
Read more »