Along the Grand Strand, gas prices have been steadily on the rise. Many factors have contributed to this increase including, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, inflation, as well as supply and demand problems after the pandemic. 

With increased gas prices, Americans are struggling to afford their everyday travels to and from work. According to AAA, gas prices have risen 88 cents since February; many people have not witnessed gas prices this high since the recession of 2008. With inflation over 7%, Americans have been watching gas and supermarket prices, as well as mortgages, increase every day.

The United States Dept. of Energy has compiled a checklist to help individuals beat the high gas prices.

Some of these steps include:

1. Slow down; for each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is equivalent to paying an additional $0.15 per gallon.
2. Keep your car maintained and running smoothly 
3. Use your engine wisely by avoiding idling and using cruise control
4. Be smart about driving plans and carpool
5. Keep your car light, don’t pack the car with unnecessary items

Apps like Gas Buddy are helping Americans find the best prices around their area. Prices per gallon range anywhere from $5.75 in California to $3.81 in Kansas the wide gap between state prices is due to different taxes on infrastructure and the environment according to AAA. The prices have exceeded the previous national average of  $4.11 set in July of 2008.

Carolina Forest students as young as 16 are angry about the rising prices as they travel to and from school daily. 

Junior Jeanna Graziano shared, “It limits my travel to places that I would normally travel to due to the price. It has affected my budget dramatically!” 

At the moment there seems to be no end in sight as Americans wait to see what becomes of future gas prices. It might be time to knock the dust off your bicycle and go for a ride.