Rising Gas Prices Impact Summer Travel Plans Across the U.S.

Gas prices have soared as the summer travel season begins, reaching some of the highest levels in recent years. According to AAA data, there is a noticeable disparity in prices between different regions. The national average has climbed to the mid-$4 range, while some states, particularly on the West Coast, are experiencing prices above $6.

Regional Differences in Gas Prices

Drivers in the South and Midwest continue to enjoy some of the lowest gas prices in the country. However, these states have also faced steep increases since late February. The gap between the states with the cheapest and most expensive gas is larger than it has been in several summers. Current data reveals which regions are experiencing the highest pressures at the pump.

States with Highest Gas Prices

• California — $6.094
• Washington — $5.752
• Hawaii — $5.655
• Oregon — $5.290
• Alaska — $5.255
• Nevada — $5.243
• Arizona — $4.767
• Illinois — $4.903
• New York — $4.584
• Connecticut — $4.604

These states often grapple with higher fuel costs because of environmental regulations, refinery constraints, and limited access to less expensive regional fuel supplies. While West Coast states are dealing with elevated prices not seen since 2022, the South and Midwest continue to stay below the national average, albeit with noticeable increases since the Iran conflict disrupted global oil markets.

Impact on Long-Distance Travel Costs

The increase in gas prices has made long-distance travel considerably more expensive than last year. The current national average is $4.46 per gallon, compared to $3.17 a year ago. For a vehicle averaging 25 miles per gallon, a 1,000-mile trip requires about 40 gallons of gas. Today, this trip costs approximately $178, compared to about $127 last year. That represents an increase of over $50 for a single long-distance journey.

For families planning several road trips this summer, these added costs can accumulate quickly. A two-car household traveling thousands of miles over the summer could spend hundreds more than in previous years. Analysts point out that prices may remain high for some time, particularly with ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran conflict.

Adjustments in Travel Plans

As gas prices rise, many Americans are altering their travel plans. AAA’s Memorial Day forecast showed record road travel, yet many travelers opted for shorter trips or destinations closer to home. With gas prices over a dollar higher than last year, people are shortening itineraries, reducing stops, or choosing long weekends instead of week-long vacations.

Surveys from GasBuddy and other platforms show that the increase in prices is causing some travelers to skip vacations altogether. About 56 percent of respondents plan to travel this summer, but many are delaying trips, cutting nonessential travel, or opting for cheaper lodging and activities to compensate for higher fuel costs. While demand remains strong, financial pressures are prompting travelers to rethink how far and how often they choose to drive.

States Benefiting from Road-Trip Tourism

States with significant tourism economies, especially those featuring national parks, scenic highways, and outdoor attractions, benefit the most from road trips. Data from Roadtrippers indicates that California, Florida, and Texas are the top states for road-trip planners, capturing a large portion of domestic travel spending. California, with its national parks and coastal routes, accounts for over 16 percent of all road-trip destinations.

States with iconic natural landmarks, like Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, and South Dakota, also see notable economic benefits from road-trip tourism. Destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Zion, Yellowstone, and Mount Rushmore attract millions, who often drive rather than fly to reach these sites. Despite rising gas prices, these regions continue to be favored by travelers, keeping road-trip tourism vital to their economies.