Some people across the Pee Dee complain high gas prices are keeping them home this Memorial Day weekend.
One woman said she would love to take a vacation because she needs a break from the pandemic and work, but every dime she saves goes back into gas.
Greg Brock stopped at a gas station along Highway 52 at I-95 in Florence.
Brock paid about $36 for gas, but he already had some fuel in his tank.
He added he and his family planned a while ago for the trip and knew gas prices would be higher.
Brock said they've made concessions to save money.
It does impact you. The cost of it, it's on your mind. So, we may not eat out as much. We may not do some activities that we normally would do. Because, everybody has a budget, right? So, we are having to navigate that whole, fun world as gas prices keep going up," said Brock.
Utekarsh Patel works at the Mobil station on West Lucas Street in Florence.
Patel said his business isn't bad, but he really expected more this Memorial Day weekend.
“The whole month has been really slow. Even the roads. But I’m talking about 52 and I-95 from what I am seeing here. It’s a lot better than last two or three weeks,” said Patel.
He added his busiest days are Friday night, Saturday and Sunday.
Patel said he has high hopes that he'll see a good crowd of people coming to his store on those days.
Triple AAA Carolinas says "Memorial Day weekend is expected to be the busiest in three years, building on a travel resurgence that began earlier this spring. This year’s forecast marks the second highest single-year increase in travelers since 2010 (2021 was the highest), bringing volumes almost in line with pre-pandemic levels."
Some people said they do plan to travel, but it will only be a day trip like to Myrtle Beach or Charleston.
One man said it's going to cost his family of four more than $100 to fill up their SUV and he can't afford to travel hundreds of miles.
Triple AAA Carolinas list the following suggestions to save money Money-road trippers:
- Leave early to avoid congestion and more time on the road.
- Reduce food costs by packing snacks and water.
- Consider staying at an all-inclusive resort. This limits driving and paying a la carte for entertainment and dining.
- Compare gas prices with the free AAA Mobile app. Filling stations near airports and attractions often have the highest prices.
- Determine how much you can expect to spend on gasoline during your trip by using AAA’s Gas Cost Calculator.
- Use loyalty programs like the AAA membership, which provides discounted rates on hotels, dining, even gasoline.