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Axios
22-05-2025
- Axios
"Pack your patience:" Record Memorial Day madness hits Colorado
This summer's travel season is about to take off, with Colorado once again on pace to smash Memorial Day records, AAA Colorado spokesperson Skyler McKinley tells Axios Denver. Why it matters: Coloradans aren't staying home even as economic pessimism persists. By the numbers: Denver International Airport officials say more than 443,000 travelers are expected to pass through security over the long weekend — matching last year's historic surge. Friday and Monday will be particularly packed, with upwards of 80,000 passengers daily. The big picture: More than 45 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles between Thursday and Monday — topping a 20-year record, AAA data shows. The Federal Aviation Administration is preparing for its busiest summer in 15 years. Nearly 54,000 flights are expected to take off nationwide on Thursday alone. An estimated 87% of travelers nationwide — or about 39 million people — are choosing to hit the road this year. Between the lines: More travelers opting to drive could be a sign of lingering distrust in air travel following a recent string of alarming tech and safety lapses at airports nationwide, including DIA. Still, FAA acting administrator Chris Rocheleau insists air travel is "the safest form of transportation in world history." The intrigue: Road trippers in Colorado will catch a break at the pump this year, McKinley tells Axios Denver. Average Colorado gas prices are hovering around $3.58 per gallon, down from $3.71 this time last year. Pro tips: "The further you can get away from the highways when you're filling up your vehicle, the more you will save," McKinley advises. The worst days to drive will be Thursday and Monday, especially on the I-70 corridor, he says. To avoid gridlock, travel early in the day — or better yet, leave Saturday or Sunday.


CBS News
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- CBS News
Colorado average gas price of $3.55/gallon is expected to rise Memorial Day weekend
The busy Memorial Day travel period is ramping up across Colorado, with Thursday being the start of the four-day stretch for the holiday weekend. Millions are expected to hit the road for the unofficial start of summer, and CBS Colorado wants to help you get Road Trip Ready. AAA Colorado says there is good news for drivers filling up on Thursday. Getting as will be cheaper for your wallet than waiting for the weekend. The spike will be around Memorial Day weekend and will last until Labor Day. / Getty Images AAA Colorado said across Colorado, the average price for gas is $3.55 a gallon. A little better than this time last year, when the average price for gas was $3.72/gallon. AAA Colorado says it is better to get gas now than wait because most of their calls come from stranded drivers. These are from drivers who don't put gas in their cars before taking big trips. It is always important to fill up your tank when you hit half a tank. Anything less than that will put wear and tear on your vehicle, especially the engine. Never let your car get down to empty. "It is a problem whenever your vehicle runs out of gas," said Skyler McKinley, AAA Regional Director of Public Affairs. "It is a problem for the thousands of drivers that we have to rescue when they run out of gas. You don't want to wait until the next service station or wait for a better deal. It can do some damage to your fuel pump and cause problems in the lines." Also, AAA says don't drive across town to go to the cheaper gas station. Use the one closest to you. You will still pay around the same amount, if not more. As you hit the road, don't forget the express lane basics. Cross the line and pay the fine. Pay attention to roadway signage warnings of upcoming entrances and exits.