Full Breakdown
Memorial Day Travel Confronts Record Gas Prices
5/26/2026, 11:33:01 AM
Record Prices and Travel Outlook
During Memorial Day weekend nationwide the national average for regular gasoline rose to $4.51-$4.55 per gallon, about $1.30 considerably above last year. The jump follows the February 2024 U.S.–Israel strike on Iran and the ensuing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which limited oil flow. AAA still projected 45 million Americans would travel at least 50 miles, with 39 million driving.
Data Snapshot
- National average $4.51-$4.55/gal (up $1.38 from 2025).
- Travel forecast: 45 million total travelers; 39.1 million by car; 3.66 million by air.
Impact on Travelers
Higher fuel costs prompted many drivers to shorten trips, limit overnight stays, or choose nearer destinations. In New Hampshire respondents said they might “stay around Boston,” while Tennessee families reported cutting meals to stretch budgets.
Official Statements & Responses
AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said travel remains a personal priority despite price pressure. Going’s Katy Nastro observed consumers are “picking and choosing” and may trim trips. GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan warned the “most volatile summer at the pump” could keep costs high even after the Strait reopens.
Criticism & Opposition
Democratic lawmakers faulted the administration’s handling of the Iran conflict. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Trump’s high gas prices are emptying wallets and ruining plans.” Sen. Gary Peters warned of broader economic strain.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list the national average as $4.51, $4.55, or $4.55 per gallon; travel forecasts range 39-45 million drivers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “PEOPLE ARE LOOKING AT THEIR BOTTOM LINE AND THEY'RE PICKING AND CHOOSING. THEY'RE PRIORITIZING TRAVEL. THAT'S DEFINITELY THE THEME THAT WE'VE SEEN JUST THIS MEMORIAL DAY. AND THEN HEADING INTO THE SUMMER. BUT MAYBE THEY'RE SHORTENING THEIR TRIPS. MAYBE THAT ROAD TRIP IS CUT IN HALF, MAYBE IT'S CUT IT DOWN BY A DAY.” — Katy Nastro, Going spokesperson
- “It’s tough to sit at the pump and see them so high, but keep driving, it won’t stop us,” — Jake Greenberg, traveler
- “This is the most volatile summer at the pump in years, and the Strait of Hormuz closure is at the center of it,” — Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy analyst
- “For people, travel has just always been so personal. It brings them joy. It’s something to look forward to, and particularly post-COVID, we have seen record travel numbers,” — Aixa Diaz, AAA spokesperson
What’s Next
Analysts see the Fourth of July weekend as a demand test; some project the national average could near $5 per gallon. AAA advises monitoring traffic and shopping for fuel.
