Memorial Day Travel: Rising Costs and Financial Strain
AAA projected over 45 million Americans would travel more than 50 miles for Memorial Day weekend, despite a spike in gas prices.
The Cost of Travel
Gas prices reached their highest level in four years, influenced by the ongoing Iran war, according to AAA and GasBuddy. Researchers at Brown University reported that since the start of the Iran war on Feb. 28, the typical American household paid an extra $326 for gas and diesel, costing consumers an additional $42.8 billion.
Some individuals cited financial constraints due to the rising cost of living, fuel prices, and transportation costs as reasons for not traveling or socializing this Memorial Day.
Individual Stories of Struggle
Amanda Hamilton, a single mother of two in Kentucky, said she has no Memorial Day plans in order to save money. She drives an accessible van for her daughter's medical appointments and described gas prices as anxiety-provoking.
Brenda Howard, a retired 66-year-old from Lubbock, Texas, said she cannot afford a car and relies on Uber, but ride-share rates have doubled. She said she is unable to attend church or work, and described feeling like a prisoner in her home.
Betsy Rosado of Spring Hill, Florida, cited rising gas costs for challenges caring for her disabled daughter. She canceled a speech therapy appointment because she could not afford gas, and said her family will stay home for Memorial Day to save money for children's schooling.
Juan Saro, a Navy veteran living in Decatur, Georgia, said he gave up his car months ago due to rising living costs. He will not visit family or friends for Memorial Day. He receives VA disability benefits and is advocating for reform to improve VA support for veterans.
Official Statements
President Trump said on Thursday that the Iran conflict would "end soon" and that gasoline prices would then go down.
Context
The article includes interviews conducted by ABC News with individuals affected by rising costs. The war in Iran began on Feb. 28.