Missourians considering gas prices when thinking of Labor Day weekend travel

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

As the summer season comes to an end, Labor Day weekend is the last moment for families and friends to spend together before the cold weather approaches.

According to AAA booking data, domestic travel is up 4%, and international bookings are up 44%, including hotels, flights, rental cars and cruises.

Gas prices are relatively similar to last year's prices. According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular gas last year's Labor Day weekend was $3.78. Sunday's national average is $3.82.

Some Columbia residents said they would be staying home to save money from travel expenses.

"The gas prices are extremely high, and there's not really enough money coming into the economy for us to afford the travel like that," Renita Goins said.

Across the state the average price of gas is $3.49 for a gallon of regular gas, four cents less than last week and five cents more this time last year. Drivers in Jefferson City are paying the most with an average of $3.60. Residents of Joplin are paying the least with $3.29 per gallon of regular gas. The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Columbia is $3.55, according to AAA.

Columbia resident Sarah Steele said she spends over $300 a month on gas.

"With the price of everything right now, it's not a good time for us to travel," Steele said. "So we're staying home as much as possible."