Gas at almost $4 a gallon has really hit travelers hard.An estimated 23% Americans shortened or abandoned their weekend travel plans because of the record gasoline prices, according to a survey by consulting firm Deloitte and Touche. Among families with younger children, under 13, 35% changed their plans.
About 37.9 million people traveled at least fifty miles during the holiday weekend, which started May 23rd and ends tomorrow, according to AAA, the largest US motorist group. It is one percent lower than last year and the first fall since 2002.
Many travelers who usually drive have already switched to mass transits to reach their destination. The number of passengers using Amtrak has increased by eleven percent over last year, according to figures released by the company. The company is due to release figures for the Memorial Day weekend next week.
Hotel chains with economy and mid size rooms are seeing brisk business as travelers seek value and economize. People are shopping around for deals and packages and hotel chains offering such bargains expect to be fully booked for the entire summer.