Gas prices mean curtailed vacation plans

A new AAA survey reveals Americans are concerned about the higher gasoline prices and will consider traveling closer to home this summer if gas prices increase above current levels. AAA projects the national average price will peak near $2.70 a gallon this summer — a 40-cent increase from current levels and a 75-cent increase from a year ago.

“Trimming travel plans may take on even more importance in Utah where motorists have already seen high prices due to pipeline issues,” said Rolayne Fairclough, AAA Utah spokesperson. “All Americans will start to see gas prices increase in April with the switchover to summer blends.”

Higher gas prices are already impacting the travel industry. The majority of those surveyed said they will not leave the U.S. this summer. With nearly 80 percent of families planning a summer trip, higher gas prices are making national parks and theme parks popular destinations.

Day-to-day choices are also impacted by the price at the pump. More than 70 percent say they will make everyday lifestyle and driving habit changes to offset increases in gas prices. The top five changes motorists will make include: combining errands or trips, driving less, reducing shopping or dining out, delaying major purchases, and carpooling. But not everyone will jump to make a change. The survey found that younger Americans (18-34) are more tolerant of higher prices and less likely to change habits compared to older consumers (35 and older).