NC gas prices rise slightly ahead of July 4th holiday week

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — A record number of more than 60 million travelers are expected to hit the road for the July Fourth holiday week, according to AAA.

That’s two million more than last year.

The prices at the pumps are already rising.

For the second week in a row, people are paying a little bit more than they have been to fill up their tanks.

AAA reported that the national average for gas is $3.49 a gallon.

In North Carolina, the average is $3.29 a gallon, which is four cents more than this time last year. That’s about 60 cents more each time someone fills up their tank.

But with people already getting a head start on their Fourth of July vacations, prices are expected to get even more expensive.

AAA anticipates a record-setting travel week, with Wednesday, July 3 predicted to be the busiest on the roads.

“It’s the holiday, people are trying to get out and enjoy it with family and friends,” said William Hamlet, who stopped in Raleigh to top off his tank, during his road trip from Tennessee to the Outer Banks.

He said throughout his 12-hour trip, he’s already noticed a difference.

“[Prices] have gotten higher as we’ve been out,” said Hamlet. “Almost a dollar higher.”

Experts suggest filling up tanks ahead of the busiest travel days, to help get the best deals.

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