This Memorial Day weekend, over 800,000 residents of Wisconsin are expected to travel, but rising gas prices are reshaping their plans. According to AAA, the national average price for gas is projected to reach $4.48 per gallon, a significant increase from $3.14 last year. Many drivers in the Milwaukee area are feeling the pinch, with some, like Ernie Rodriguez from Franklin, canceling trips to distant destinations such as Texas. Instead, Rodriguez plans to enjoy local events like the Maxwell Street Days flea market in Cedarburg.

Others, including Jerome Mills, are opting to postpone filling their gas tanks in an effort to save money, indicating a trend of budget-conscious decision-making among travelers. However, not everyone is curtailing their travel; families like Sophia Traxler's are still making plans to visit popular destinations like the Dells. As travel continues to ramp up, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) advises drivers to utilize resources like 511 Wisconsin for real-time traffic updates and travel advisories, ensuring a safer journey during this busy holiday weekend.