Memorial Day 2026 arrives with an uncomfortable warning for millions of Americans. Gasoline prices are skyrocketing and that could slow holiday travel. Although the long weekend typically prompts massive family departures, this year many will think twice before filling up their tanks.
Memorial Day will be celebrated on May 25. It traditionally marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States. But the current context is different. Fuel prices are already straining wallets and threatening to make every trip more expensive, whether by road or by air.
According to AAA data, gasoline is at $4.56 per gallon. However, GasBuddy analysts believe it could approach $5. That jump would be enough to change plans, shorten distances, or even cancel trips that were already decided.
Why Did Gas Prices Rise So Much?
The increase cannot be explained by seasonal demand alone. So far, gasoline has risen more than 50%. The main reason is the increase in energy costs following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This decision occurred amid the war against Iran.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for global oil. When its operations are disrupted, markets react immediately. The impact is felt at refineries, gas stations, and airports. That is why the effect is not limited to automobile fuel.
Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy’s oil expert, was clear about the outlook. He told CBS that this could be the most volatile summer at gas pumps in years. He also warned that prices will take a long time to normalize, even if the strait reopens soon.
How Does This Affect Road Travel?
The impact will be felt first in car trips. Memorial Day typically spurs short getaways, family visits, and trips to nearby beaches or parks. But with gas so expensive, many travelers are thinking twice before heading out.
For an average family, filling up the tank already represents considerable expense. If the gallon reaches $5, each trip will cost more. This forces budget adjustments, reduced spending, and choosing closer destinations. In practice, the holiday becomes more expensive from the first mile.
AAA estimates that 45 million Americans will travel to nearby places. Still, that figure could be affected by rising prices. Many will stick to their plans, but with less money to spend on food, lodging, or activities during the trip.
What About Flights?
The problem is not limited to highways. Domestic and international flights will also increase in price. The rise in aircraft fuel costs is hitting airlines hard. And some companies have already begun warning that they will pass those costs on to their customers.
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The increase in aviation fuel puts pressure on the entire system. Yuvraj Datta, director of procurement and revenue at Fareportal, described the situation as “unusually fragile.” He said fuel can represent 30% of a flight’s operating costs.
That explains why several airlines are studying fare increases and route cuts. If operating a route costs more than it generates, the company adjusts. As a result, some destinations could have fewer flights, and tickets would be even more expensive this summer.
How Large Will Travel Movement Be This Memorial Day?
Despite the adverse scenario, mobility will be high. The Transportation Security Administration expects at least 18.3 million travelers between this Thursday and the following Wednesday. It is a huge figure for a period of just several days.
