Travel
AAA predicts a record number of holiday travelers, says gas prices could rise
As the holidays approach, a record number of Americans are planning their travels. Ahead of this busy time, average gas prices in Missouri are remaining low.
AAA projects more than 119 million people will travel 50 or more miles from home from Dec. 21-Jan. 1, according to a news release. This is 3 million more travelers than last year. For domestic travel, projections surpass the previous record set in 2019 by 64,000 travelers.
In Missouri, AAA forecasts 2.3 million people will be traveling during the year-end holidays, with cars the preferred mode of travel for 2.1 million of them. The total expected travel volume in the Show-Me State is up 3% from last year but down 4% compared to 2019, according to the release.
AAA advises that the worst traffic delays can be expected the weekends before Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, though the holidays themselves should have minimal congestion. To lower the chance of getting stuck in traffic, drivers should consider avoiding traveling during peak commuting hours during the week, leaving bright and early or later after the evening commute.
But leaving early or later should be done with rest in mind. According to the AAA, driving on 4-5 hours of sleep is as dangerous as driving with a 0.08% blood alcohol content, the legal limit. With less than four hours of sleep, the risk doubles. AAA advises it is best to travel during hours you’re normally awake and avoid overnight drives, and take breaks every two hours or 100 miles during longer trips.
Missouri gas prices remain low, could rise
While gas prices ahead of the holidays are remaining low in Missouri compared to elsewhere, the high volumes of traffic toward the end of the year may change that.
Currently, the statewide gas price average is $2.67 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel. This is below the national average of $3.03 per gallon, according to another AAA news release. Missouri is seeing the seventh lowest gas price average in the country.
Within the state, drivers in Columbia are paying the most on average at $2.83 per gallon while those in Joplin are paying the least at $2.48. Springfield falls under the state average with a price of $2.53 per gallon. According to the AAA gas price database, southwest Missouri in general has some of the lowest prices.
“Gasoline prices are going down for now,” AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria said in the release. “Price fluctuations through the remainder of 2024 are possible as record year-end holiday travel volume will likely put pressure on demand for fuel in the coming days.”
Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com.
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