Gas prices hit 4-year Memorial Day weekend high as drivers face rising costs

OAK CREEK, Wis. (CBS 58) - Millions of Americans are traveling this Memorial Day weekend despite gas prices hovering near their highest levels in years.

AAA estimates more than 39 million people will travel by car during the holiday weekend, even as drivers face rising fuel costs at the pump.

In Wisconsin, the average price for a gallon of gas has climbed to $4.41.

“Sitting here at the gas station and I’m like wow, $40-$60 doesn't go a long way,” driver Chaz Washington said. “It’s definitely adding up as we see monthly expenses so it's definitely an impact there.”

Travelers say the higher prices are putting pressure on family budgets and making summer road trips harder to afford.

“We have a long summer, summer’s just starting and there’s more opportunities for families like me and my family to travel,” Washington said. “We don't want to spend our last pennies on gas when we could be outside enjoying events with each other.”

The increase in gas prices comes as conflict with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz continue to affect global energy markets.

“I’m a Republican personally and I don’t think this is the greatest look for the Republican Party,” driver Jack Richards said. “But there has to be a good reason why we’re shutting off the Strait of Hormuz.”

Washington said he hopes leaders can find a solution.

“I hope that something comes up with the government and hopefully they come together and figure this out,” he said.