High gas prices won’t keep travelers off the roads this Memorial Day season, as an increased number of Americans take to the roads of airways over the weekend.

According to AAA South Dakota, 94,375 South Dakotans, or 12.5% of the state’s population, are expected to travel fifty of more miles on to their Memorial Day destination. This is an increase over last year’s number of 1.7%, which mirrors the national average for travel during the holiday weekend.

Among the travelers this weekend, 83% will be reaching their destination by motor vehicle. About 84% of travelers nationally will take to roads, which is 1.8% higher than last Memorial Day. Despite gas prices in South Dakota as well as the nation being near record highs, AAA spokesperson Mark Madeja doesn’t foresee it dampening the holiday spirit.

“High gas prices and increased vacation costs won’t deter Americans from traveling this Memorial Day,” Madeja said. “Families will travel closer to home, they will travel for fewer days and will save money by staying in less expensive hotels and eating in cheaper restaurants, but they will continue to take vacations and plan getaways.”

Currently, South Dakota gas prices are averaging $3.24 a gallon, which is $.13 higher than the national average. South Dakota’s prices are up 38 cents from a year ago, according to AAAFuelGaugeReport.com

Hotel rates have increased from a year ago as well. Travelers can expect a 13% increase from a year ago in AAA 3 Diamond Hotels

Travelers opting for ulterior forms of transportation will find a respite. Flight rates are down 5% from last year, with a flight cost averaging at $166. Nationally, 4.4 Million Americans plan to fly, a 1% increase from last year. Those deciding to rent a car will also find a decrease from last year, with rental rates dropping 16% from last year, or almost six dollars.

Many families will be spending the weekend together, with 57% of households will bring children ages 18 and under along for the ride. In the Midwest, two thirds of families will bring their children, with 60% families from the Southeast will see their children experiencing the great family road trip.

The Midwest ranks third in the number of auto travelers expected to trek this weekend, with 6.8 million, barely being edged by the Southeast, which will boast 6.9 million. The best is the West, which anticipates 7.6 million to experience the open road.

The Travel Industry Association of America conducted a national survey of 2,000 adults, and provides AAA with specific research. 

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