Millions of Americans, including Ohio drivers, are preparing to travel for the Memorial Day holiday weekend despite significantly higher gas prices.
According to AAA, the average price for gasoline in Ohio is currently about $4.74 per gallon, which is roughly $1.74 higher than this time last year.
Nationwide, AAA expects approximately 45 million people to travel during the holiday weekend, with nearly 39 million expected to travel by car.
Officials say national travel numbers are slightly higher than last year, but overall remain relatively steady.
In Ohio alone, about 1.7 million residents are expected to travel for Memorial Day weekend, similar to last year’s totals.
Air travel in Ohio is expected to decrease slightly, with around 90,000 people projected to fly.
AAA spokesperson Morgan Dean says higher fuel prices are not stopping many families from taking trips.
“They want to get that trip in, they want to get that vacation in there,” Dean said. “They’re just having to dig a little bit deeper in their pockets as they’re putting it all together.”
Travel experts say drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should consider traveling later in the morning or after the evening commute to avoid the heaviest traffic.
Memorial Day itself is expected to be one of the busiest return travel days of the weekend, and officials recommend getting an early start when heading home.
AAA is also encouraging travelers to prepare vehicles before leaving by checking tire pressure, battery condition, fluid levels, and fuel supplies.
Drivers are reminded to buckle up, avoid distracted driving, obey speed limits, and never drive impaired.
Travelers spending the weekend outdoors or on the water are also encouraged to monitor weather conditions, wear life jackets while boating, and carry emergency supplies.
