Higher Gas Prices Limit Memorial Day Travel for Some Americans

The American Automobile Association projects that more than 45 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles for Memorial Day weekend despite a national increase in gasoline prices. Several people interviewed by ABC News said higher fuel costs have changed their holiday plans.

Amanda Hamilton, a single mother of two in Kentucky, said she has no Memorial Day plans this year in order to save money.

U.S. gasoline prices have reached their highest level in four years. Brown University researchers calculated that the typical American household has paid an extra $326 for gasoline and diesel since February 28. 8 billion in consumer costs.

Howard, a 66-year-old retiree in Lubbock, Texas, told ABC News she cannot afford a vehicle and that ride-share fares have doubled in the past year. She said the increases have prevented her from traveling to work or church events. Betsy Rosado in Spring Hill, Florida, said she canceled a speech-therapy appointment for her daughter because she could not afford the gasoline.

Juan Saro in Decatur, Georgia, said he relinquished his car several months ago and now has no Memorial Day plans. President Donald Trump said Thursday that the conflict in Iran would end soon and that gasoline prices would subsequently fall below previous levels.