Boise, Idaho – (Release from AAA) Idahoans will travel in droves to see family and friends this Thanksgiving, even if it comes with a higher price tag. According to AAA, nearly 54.6 million Americans, including 312,000 Idahoans, will set out on a Turkey Day trip this year, despite gas prices that are nearly 50 cents higher per gallon than a year ago.
Today, the average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $4.17 per gallon, which is seven cents less than a week ago and 20 cents less than a month ago. Meanwhile, the national average currently sits at $3.61, which is 13 cents less than a week ago and 19 cents less than a month ago.
Here’s a seven-year retrospective on Thanksgiving gas prices:
| YEAR | U.S. | IDAHO |
| 2021 | $3.40 | $3.68 |
| 2020 | $2.12 | $2.30 |
| 2019 | $2.59 | $2.96 |
| 2018 | $2.59 | $2.99 |
| 2017 | $2.52 | $2.66 |
| 2016 | $2.13 | $2.36 |
| 2015 | $2.05 | $2.18 |
Courtesy AAA Idaho
AAA says that the ongoing boycott of Russian crude and a recent agreement by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and their partners to cut production by two million barrels per day have placed additional pressure on global crude prices due to a threat of potential scarcity. More than 50% of the price of finished gasoline is determined by the price of crude oil.
Today, the West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude is trading near $77 per barrel, which is about $7 less than a month ago and $1 less than a year ago.
“Falling gas prices are something to be thankful for, but this Thanksgiving’s pump prices are still among the highest on record,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Even so, people see family gatherings, particularly around the holidays, as a major factor in their quality of life. Most people are digging deep and finding a way to budget for the opportunity to connect or re-connect with their loved ones.”
On the road
- Check weather, road and traffic conditions before you go.
- Avoid wearing bulky coats that can restrict movement while driving. Dress in layers.
- Wash your car to keep windshields, mirrors and lights free from dirt and grime.
- Never blindly follow your GPS. If a road isn’t properly maintained, turn around.
- Actively scan the road for debris, potholes, and wildlife.
- Watch for slick spots on curves, hills, bridges, and shaded areas. Remember that weather patterns and temperatures can change throughout the day and at different elevations.
- Share your travel plans, including the route you’ll take, with loved ones who can act on your behalf if you fail to arrive.
At the airport
- Arrive at least two hours before your flight departs.
- Use the airline mobile app to stay informed of possible changes to your itinerary.
- Avoid checking bags if possible – but if not, pack at least one change of clothes, medications, and other valuables in your carry-on bag.
At the hotel
- Verify the availability of on-site dining and other services, as staffing shortages have led to reduced hours of operation in some areas.
- For additional peace of mind, explore contactless options, like online check-in or check-out, room service, and digital room keys.
“On any road trip, it’s important to bring an emergency kit, complete with food, water, blankets and other warm clothing, a flashlight with fresh batteries, flares or reflectors, a first aid kit, jumper cables, and basic tools,” Conde said. “A collapsible shovel could be useful if you need to dig out of the snow, and plan ahead for icy roads and a potential loss of traction – in an emergency, tire chains or socks, sand, kitty litter, or even a floor mat can be used to help you get back on the go.”
Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices as of 11/23/22:
Boise – $4.21
Coeur d’Alene – $3.93
Franklin – $3.99
Idaho Falls – $3.99
Lewiston – $4.32
Pocatello – $4.11
Rexburg – $4.13
Twin Falls – $4.17