Despite High Gas Prices, Americans Hit the Road

May 26, 2007 — -- More than 32 million Americans will hit the highways this Memorial Day weekend, according to AAA. But high gas prices are causing some consumers to get creative, traveling shorter distances in smaller, more efficient vehicles to save money.

"We do expect people to get out there, take that standard family vacation, but they're going to be traveling smarter when they go out," said AAA's Yolanda Clark.

A gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is up a $1.82 compared to this time five years ago, adding up to a 130-percent increase.

What used to be an inexpensive getaway is now anything but. In 2002, the average gas bill for a memorial day road trip from New York City to Cape May, N.J. -- 157 miles -- would have been just under $20, roundtrip. Today, the same drive costs almost $46.

The 297 mile trip from Chicago to St. Louis cost less than $38 at the pump five years ago. Today, it's more than $86.

And the 331-mile trek from San Diego to Las Vegas used to be about $42. Now, gas for the road costs more than $96.

The high prices have many drivers across the country considering a plan B.

"Just staying here in town and having a cookout with friends just sounds like much more fun," one would be road-tripper told "Good Morning America Weekend."

Drivers aren't the only ones feeling the pinch. Some gas station owners are as well. A service station outside Milwaukee, Wis., is no longer selling gas. The owner said he's losing money with each transaction because of what he has to pay his supplier.

But Cara Birch, a Chicago public relations executive, was determined to make it to her annual family reunion this weekend no matter what. On Saturday, she'll make the 90 mile drive to Rockford, Ill. with her brother. Birch did make at least one modification to save her wallet -- she rented a less-expensive, compact car for the trip.

"The gas prices, you know, are a little out of control right now," she said before hitting the road.