Spring Break Fuel Surge: NC Families Feel Pinch

0:00This is Cory with Durham News Today, powered by the Daily News Now. Fuel prices are climbing in North Carolina and just a spring break approaches for schools and colleges. The average cost for a gallon of gas now sits at $3.26, according to gas buddy data. Families gearing up for road trips are feeling the pinch as they finalize their plans. Geopolitical tensions and global oil supply issues are driving this volatility. Jet fuel has jumped from $2.50 to $3.95 per gallon. Airlines warn they cannot keep absorbing these costs forever. Local drivers express shock over the sudden spike. Many worry prices could rise even more in the weeks ahead. Parents with out-of-town events, like sports tournaments, are already scaling back or rethinking family travel to cut expenses. The rising costs threaten air travel too. Drivers may add fuel surcharges, hike ticket prices, or increase baggage fees.

1:00Travelers planning summer trips are bracing for those changes. Experts suggest booking flights early to lock in lower rates. Prices might stabilize if oil shipments through key routes like the Strait of Hormuz resume safely. But for now, families advise filling up when gas is cheaper and saving wherever possible. This episode is brought to you in partnership with our sponsor. It is a pillow that plays your podcast in music without earbuds built for listening in bed. It's O-L-I-SOLY-PILLOW.com.