TOPEKA (KSNT) – For some Kansas drivers, filling up the gas tank is becoming more than just another expense. It’s a cost that is forcing them to rethink their plans for the Labor Day weekend.
A Labor Day road trip is something many families look forward to each year. The average price of gas in Kansas is just under the national average at around $3.80 per gallon. According to GasBuddy, average prices in Topeka are still 20 cents higher than they were a month ago. Prices are also still averaging nearly $4 per gallon in places such as Kansas City and Wichita.
Some drivers said higher gas prices are forcing them to make difficult decisions about how they spend their money.
“A weekend getaway would be cool, but it’s not in the books for this year,” said Wyatt Tummons. “I have no intention of traveling, so I imagine other people feel the same way.”
Others said rising fuel costs have led them to cut back on activities outside of work.
“I definitely don’t get out of the house at all now just to basically I mean, it’s just work and home now,” said Drake Evergreen. “I mean, I’m just working for gas now, basically.”
For some families, the increased costs mean a holiday getaway is no longer an option.
“Maybe out of state or go to the lake or just kind of take my family somewhere,” Evergreen said. “But yeah, maybe not. Maybe not this weekend.”
Drivers said gas is not the only expense putting pressure on their budgets. They also pointed to rising costs for food, housing and other everyday necessities.
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“Squeezing everything,” said Joe Oliva. “I mean, food is expensive. Gas is expensive. So, there’s not much I’m able to spend on extra stuff right now.”
As a result, some drivers said this Labor Day weekend will look different than previous years. Instead of traveling long distances, they plan to stay closer to home and save their gas money for trips they cannot avoid.
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