LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – This Memorial Day weekend, the total number of travelers is projected to increase by 4% compared to last year, according to AAA. But for Nebraska drivers concerned about fuel costs there’s some good news. Prices at the pump are ticking lower again.
According to AAA’s gas prices calculator, the average cost per gallon of gas in Nebraska is $3.35, about 3 cents less than this time last year.
Across the country, drivers can expect similar gas prices to this time last year when the national average was about $3.57.
While prices are lower right now, there are a number of factors that experts will be monitoring as the summer months continue.
“Compared to last year, we have two wars on the international scale that could affect gas prices,” Brian Ortner, with AAA said. “The cost of crude oil is the largest impact number on the price of gas at the pump, that number is hovering is below $80 per barrel.”
Overall, this holiday travel weekend is expected to be busy. Across the U.S., AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home. And in the Midwest region which includes Nebraska, that number 3.5 million travelers.
This year will come close to matching 2005′s record of 44 million Memorial day Travelers.
Before embarking on a road trip, Ortner recommends making sure your car is ready. He suggests checking tire pressure and making sure the oil is changed.
As summer inches closer, the Midwest is no stranger to cicadas, which could cause some damage to your car.
“They can eat away at your cars exterior,” Ortner said. “Over the summer, make sure you’re keeping your car clean on the outside. Wash them off and only use car wash solution, no dishwashing solution.”
Ortner said it’s also important to check the grill of your car, as the bugs could interfere with it’s internal function.
For more information on getting your car ready for the holiday weekend travel and for summer road trips, click here.
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