Low gasoline prices increase travel
By Rochelle Moore
Published in News on July 1, 2016 1:46 PM
AAA Carolinas expects the highest Fourth of July travel on record this weekend due to gas prices that remain at their lowest point since 2005.
Nearly 1.8 million North and South Carolinians will travel over the holiday weekend, which started Thursday and continues through Monday.
"Spurred by the lowest July 4 gas prices since 2005, more people than ever are planning to travel this Independence Day weekend," said David Parsons, AAA Carolinas president and chief executive officer. "Whether they're traveling by car, plane, train or cruse ship, it will be exciting to see so many Americans celebrating our nation's freedom with their friends and family over the long holiday weekend."
Despite recent upticks in gas prices, due to more costly summer fuel blends, the price of gasoline remains at its lowest point in recent years, AAA Carolinas reports.
North Carolina motorists were paying an average of $2.18 per gallon for gasoline prior to the holiday weekend. The cost represents a 46-cent drop from prices a year ago. South Carolina gas prices are trending lower, with a pre-weekend average of $2 per gallon, 43 cents lower than a year ago
AAA Carolinas estimates that drivers have saved an estimated $20 billion on gasoline this year, compared to the same period in 2015. In addition to prices, consumer confidence and rising economic activity are also playing a role in increased travel.
The majority, 84 percent, of holiday travelers will drive to their destinations over the weekend. Compared to a year ago, driving activity is expected to increase by 1.2 percent, air travel will increase by 2.2 percent and other modes of travel will increase by 2 percent.
"We are well on our way for 2016 to be a record-breaking year for summertime travel," Parsons said. "This trend is welcome news for the travel industry and a sign that Carolinians are taking to our nation's highways and skies like never before."
AAA Carolinas urges caution on the roads following the 16 traffic fatalities, five which were alcohol related, in 2015. AAA research shows that using a cell phone while driving can be as dangerous and drunk driving.
AAA offers a free mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android devices. The app provides maps, gas price information and other AAA member benefit accessibility, including roadside assistance.