A gallon of unleaded gasoline costs, on average, around $5 in the U.S. yesterday.
According to a report, the cost could be high enough to cause even the most passionate road-trippers the chance to pause their travels.
However, those who are determined to get their ideal Alaskan vacations say they’re not going to allow anything to hinder their plans, at least not this time.
It’s been on my bucket list for 40 years,” said Randy Ferguson of Anaheim, California, from his camp chair in Soldotna.
Ferguson drove up from Anaheim in his RV for his first Alaska trip. And he said it’s living up to his expectations.
Ferguson’s already hit Seward and Homer and is planning to go up to Denali and Fairbanks.
It can cost up to $500 to fill up his tank every week. He has spent more on gas in the last month than he did during a trip across 23 states last year.
But that’s a price he’s willing to pay.
John Saranzak is in a similar situation.
Saranzak has just retired from Dayton, Ohio. He has the same reasoning for making the trip now.
“I’m getting older, and I thought, better do it while I can,” he said. “That’s why we’re spending a lot of time here, too, to get to know the area, not just do the tour stuff.”
Still, he’s paying twice as much for gas as he had planned when he first budgeted three years ago. That includes the higher-than-normal gas prices in Canada, where he said he paid close to $8 a gallon on the way up.
“For the month of April, just driving was $2,300,” he said. “And for the month of May was $2,200 so far.”
Gas prices are rising and hitting record levels throughout the U.S. This is a rise that experts believe is due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
This is something that all drivers notice at the pump. However, these prices are particularly notable for those who travel with RVs, which consume plenty of fuel.
Klondike RV Park Owner Al Belknap said he’d witnessed mixed reactions from would-be campers.
“We had a lot of reservations already set up,” he said.
“We take reservations real early, in January and February. And now we’re starting to see some cancellations. But I think a lot of people are trying to stick to their plan, no matter the cost.”
This story originally appeared on Ktoo.
It’s genuinely inspiring to witness RV enthusiasts like Randy Ferguson and John Saranzak pursuing their Alaskan dreams despite the increasing gas prices. For anyone embarking on a similar adventure, exploring alternative routes, adopting fuel-efficient driving methods, and employing budgeting tactics can help offset the impact of high fuel costs. It’s uplifting to see individuals persevering and finding ways to make their dreams a reality.
Many RVers, like Randy Ferguson and John Saranzak, adapt to high gas prices by sharing rides and using discounts.
Isn’t it amazing to see RV travelers like Randy Ferguson and John Saranzak facing the challenge of high gas prices head-on as they journey to Alaska? Their determination and love for adventure truly inspire us all!