Note: AAA will not send out a gas price press release on Memorial Day. Daily gas prices can always be found at http://gasprices.aaa.com/.

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.97, which is up four cents from Monday. One year ago, the price was $2.37. The New York State average is $3.09, which is up two cents from Monday. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.51. AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

•    Batavia - $3.01 (up 4 cents since Monday)
•    Buffalo - $3.00 (up 4 cents since Monday)
•    Ithaca - $3.01 (up 2 cents since Monday)
•    Rochester - $3.04 (up 1 cent since Monday)
•    Rome - $3.09 (up 1 cent since Monday)
•    Syracuse - $3.05 (no change since Monday)
•    Watertown - $3.12 (up 3 cents since Monday)

AAA’s Memorial Day Travel Forecast expects 41.5 million Americans to travel this weekend, with the majority (36.6 million) taking road trips. Rising gas prices shouldn’t deter travelers, but drivers should budget accordingly based on their destination. Find the full forecast here.

Saudi Arabia and Russia are discussing putting more oil on the market as soon as June. If that holds true, it could keep the U.S. average below $3/gallon. Until now, trends indicated that the national average would hit at least $3/gallon this summer. Along with international activities, the price of crude oil and demand levels will be major factors in determining long term gas prices. Summer brings vacation, road trips and in turn the highest demand levels of the year. AAA expects demand numbers to be on par with last year despite the highest gas prices since 2014. 

AAA expects to rescue more than 340,000 motorists at the roadside this Memorial Day weekend. Dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires will be the leading reasons AAA members will experience car trouble. Make a good B-E-T to stay safe on the road this summer by having your Battery tested, looking for Engine coolant leaks and checking Tire condition. Be prepared for emergencies with a cellphone charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a basic toolkit, and drinking water and snacks for all passengers.

Motorists can always find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel, and access AAA roadside assistance. Locate gas prices across the country at http://gasprices.aaa.com.
 

AAA WCNY wants to remind members that they can receive discounts at NOCO gas stations, as well as Fastrac locations. Learn more here. You can find the lowest prices in your area at http://aaa.opisnet.com/index.aspx.