BOISE, Idaho — Thanksgiving travel is here, and drivers may be able to save some cash for holiday shopping with lower gas prices this week. Idaho's average gas price is roughly 50 cents cheaper than a year ago, according to AAA.
In a news release, AAA states today's average price for a gallon of regular in Idaho is $3.69. That number is 6 cents less than last week, 25 cents less than a month ago, and nearly 50 cents less than a year ago. The national average is currently $3.28 per gallon, which also shows a declining price.
"The seasonal drop was slow to arrive, but now that it's happening, hanging on to some hard-earned money over the holidays gives new meaning to the idea of leftovers," AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde said. "Barring the unexpected, the trend may continue through the end of the year."
Currently, Idaho ranks 7th in the country for most expensive gas, behind California, Hawaii, Washington, Nevada, Oregon and Alaska, per AAA. 12 states are under $3 per gallon, with Texas having the most affordable fuel at $2.75 per gallon.
"Without question, we would all like pump prices to be cheaper than they are right now," Conde said. "But with an additional 1 million people expected on the roads this holiday weekend, more opportunities appear to be opening up for families to celebrate the season together."
According to AAA, they predict that 55.4 million Americans will travel 50 or more miles for Thanksgiving, with Wednesday afternoon being very busy on both the roads and airport. Anticipate longer commutes and TSA screening lines during this holiday season, the release stated.
Here's a look at the past seven years of Thanksgiving Day gas prices in Idaho:
YEAR IDAHO U.S.
2022 $4.14 $3.59
2021 $3.68 $3.40
2020 $2.30 $2.12
2019 $2.96 $2.59
2018 $2.99 $2.59
2017 $2.66 $2.52
2016 $2.36 $2.13
For those traveling this holiday season, AAA provided travel tips:
- Download the AAA mobile app to find the cheapest fuel, best route, or to book a last-minute hotel.
- Download the airline app for up-to-date information on flights.
- Use covered airport parking to help protect your car from winter weather, and park in a well-lit secure area. It is suggested to take a photo of your parking location before you leave your car.
- Give yourself extra time for driving, or TSA lines.
- Avoid checking luggage if possible, and carry the essentials like medicine and important documents in a carry-on bag.
- Double check flight status, traffic and weather conditions before traveling.
- Be kind, said AAA. Many employees and travelers have extra stress upon them during the holidays.
It is also recommended to have an emergency travel kit in your car at all times, but it's extra important to check it going into the winter months. AAA recommends having the following in your emergency kit:
- A collapsible shovel, sand or kitty litter, especially if traveling to remote areas with limited road maintenance.
- Jumper cables and basic tools
- A first aid kit
- Blanket, extra warm clothing, a towel or tarp
- Flares, reflectors, and a flashlight with extra batteries
- Washer fluid with de-icing properties
- Water and protein-based snacks for people and pets
AAA and Apple are working together to provide emergency road service through Apple's SOS system, which enables drivers to receive help via satellite connection where cell service may not be available. While both AAA members and non-members can request assistance, non-members will pay for services at the time they are provided, AAA said.
"There are still plenty of rural places in the West where cell phone coverage can be a challenge," Conde said. "As always, we're happy to come to the rescue."
Roadside incidents can happen at any time, said AAA. As a reminder, drivers are required to slow down for emergency vehicles and get over at least one lane, if possible, so first responders have space to safely do their jobs.
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