If you're planning on traveling to Disneyland or Disney World this summer, prepare yourself: Some prices have skyrocketed, and with nothing Governor DeSantis and President Biden can do, they will continue to do so through the end of the summer. Here's what you need to know.
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Disney guests will pay higher prices this summer as gas prices rise through the end of summer: Governor DeSantis and President Biden unprotected
The upcoming Memorial Day weekend marks a key time for road trip enthusiasts, which will inevitably lead to higher gas prices. According to the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) as of May 20, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.58. Projections suggest that this figure will rise to a national average of $3.70 per gallon throughout the summer.
AAA is predicting a big increase in travelers starting with Memorial Day, which is considered the unofficial start of the U.S. summer travel season. In its latest travel forecast, released May 13, it expects 43.8 million people to travel over the holiday weekend, making it the busiest Memorial Day period since 2005. The majority of these travelers are expected to choose to travel by road.
AAA predicts that a record 38.4 million people will take road trips of 50 miles or more this holiday weekend, the most road trips since AAA began tracking such data in 2000. The surge in travel demand is expected to put pressure on fuel prices heading into the holiday weekend. Fluctuations in gasoline prices are often driven by seasonal demand, especially in the summer when more traffic is on the roads.
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However, gasoline prices have been more volatile in recent years, with a significant spike in 2022 due to inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions, particularly Russia's invasion of Ukraine. That said, recent trends suggest a return to a more predictable annual cycle. By comparison, the national average gasoline price on Memorial Day 2023 was $3.57, down significantly from the previous year.
According to AAA's holiday weekend travel forecast this year, travelers can expect gas prices to be similar to last year's. While the national average provides a general perspective, it's important to keep in mind that gas prices vary widely by state, ranging from just over $3 in Mississippi to more than $5 in California. Besides consumer demand, gasoline prices are influenced by many factors, including crude oil costs, refining fees and state taxes.
Geopolitical tensions, such as conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, could disrupt oil markets and lead to further price increases. Additionally, EIA believes that strict summer fuel blending restrictions and refinery shutdowns have contributed to higher prices in recent years and may continue into the upcoming summer season. If production levels remain weak, as EIA simulations suggest, gasoline prices could rise by up to 10 cents per gallon above initial projections.
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What this means for guests traveling by car this summer
Rising gasoline prices could pose financial and logistical challenges for Disney Guests planning trips to Disneyland and Disney World this summer. With fuel costs rising, families who drive to the parks may find themselves dedicating a larger portion of their travel budget to transportation costs. This increased gas spending could put a strain on vacation budgets and cause some Guests to reconsider the feasibility of traveling or opt for alternative transportation methods, such as public transportation or carpooling.
Logistically, the possibility of higher gas prices could affect the timing and length of guests' visits. Some families may choose to shorten their stays or visit the parks during off-peak hours to minimize travel expenses. Additionally, they may be more inclined to seek out cost-saving strategies, such as booking lodging with free shuttle service or taking advantage of discounts and promotions offered by the parks.
Guests traveling long distances may also incur higher costs for lodging, meals and other travel-related activities, further increasing the overall cost of a Disney vacation. High gas prices may pose a challenge for Disney guests this summer, but careful planning and budgeting can help mitigate the impact and ensure an enjoyable experience at the Parks. Families can get the most out of their Disney vacation by considering the financial impact and exploring alternative travel options while effectively managing expenses.
