Gas prices per gallon in Billings, ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, remain around $4.24 per gallon.
With record-high fuel prices, 58% of Americans still say they plan to drive this summer. Memorial Day is expected to be the most popular travel weekend followed by Independence Day and Labor Day, due to days off available through the workplace.
High prices may not stand in the way of Americans’ summer plans, but 70% of travelers surveyed by GasBuddy say that inflation is the greatest factor in how they plan summer trips.
The average gas price in the U.S. topped $4.50 per gallon this week reaching new all-time highs. Gas prices on Memorial Day weekend are estimated to be about $4.65 per gallon, a 51% increase from last year.
Money-saving tips can help you have fun while minding your budget:
- Driving speed – Most vehicles reach optimal fuel economy around 55mph. Anticipate traffic and apply slow steady acceleration and braking maximizes fuel economy, saving between 50 cents to $1 per gallon. Travelers on average spend between two to five hours in the car during a road trip.
- Shop for lowest price per gallon. The GasBuddy app features fuels price comparisons no matter where travelers are in the country.
- Sign up for gas rewards. Retailers offer discounts and perks that can make or break your wallet.
- Review credit and debit card benefits. Many offer cash back for gas purchases.
“Against a backdrop of gas prices that have continued to set new records ahead of Memorial Day, Americans have been resilient in their desire to hit the road, but we’re certainly seeing increased hesitancy due to rising prices at the pump,” said said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy.