Gas Prices Stable for Utah Motorists on Labor Day Vacations
28 August 1997
Gas Prices Stable for Utah Motorists on Labor Day Vacations
SALT LAKE CITY, Aug. 28 -- A record number of Americans will
take to the roads and air this Labor Day holiday. Utah motorists will enjoy
stable gas prices as they celebrate the last of summer's holiday.
Utah's gasoline prices bucked national trends by dropping nearly a half
cent from mid-July to mid-August, according to AAA's national gasoline survey.
Nationally, gas increased an average of 3.1 cents from last month.
A gallon of self-service regular unleaded gas averaged $1.30, which is
only a half penny more than a year ago.
In Utah, the national parks, Lake Powell, Flaming Gorge, southern deserts
and Uintah camping spots, are expected to be busy, says John Geigle of the
Automobile Club of Utah. Many Las Vegas-area residents will also visit
southern Utah, according to AAA.
Nearby out-of-state attractions like Yellowstone National Park and
recreation areas in southern Idaho will also draw many Utahans, said Geigle.
A strong economy is spurring a 3 percent increase in U.S. travel over last
year's Labor Day weekend as a AAA census predicts a record 34 million
Americans on the roads, airways, rails and waterways.
About 11 percent of western U.S. residents are expected to travel
100 miles or more over the holiday, which is unchanged from last year's AAA
research.
Of the 34 million traveling, 90 percent will go by automobile, light truck
or recreational vehicle. Nearly 9 percent will fly, while the remainder will
travel by bus, rail or ship.
Families flying together are advised to arrive at the airport two hours
before departure to allow time for parking, security clearance and unexpected
delays.
AAA offers these tips for traveling with children:
* Involve children in planning the trip, such as destination and
restaurant selection. The more youngsters feel part of the trip, the more they
and the parents will enjoy the trip.
* Check with an established travel agent who can recommend specific
destinations and lodgings featuring children's activities and programs. Ask
the agent to make reservations for you, saving you time and money.
* Buy a few inexpensive items -- small toys, books or snacks -- to be
wrapped in brightly colored paper and given out as treats along the way.
* Outfit children in comfortable clothing. Airplanes and air-conditioned
cars tend to be cool, so bring a sweater or jacket for the kids.
* Bring snacks and favorite toys appropriate for autos and air travel.
Pack a damp cloth for those inevitable spills.
* When traveling by auto, stop every two hours for a 10-minute break.
Accompany children to restrooms and snack areas. Before hitting the road
again, make sure everyone is buckled up and kids 12 and under are properly
belted and seated in the back.
The AAA affiliate in Utah, northern California and Nevada serves
3.7 million members with an array of automotive, travel and insurance
services.
SOURCE Automobile Club of Utah
