TAMPA — After two years of the pandemic, more and more people are ready for vacations and thousands are planning long trips.

This spring break would have been the perfect time if it weren’t for those rising gas prices.

“Things can definitely add up when you factor in the cost of your hotel, but also the price of gas, and then your food and shopping. A lot of times when you see gas prices go up the way they have, you often see people budgeting more for gas and expecting to spend a little less on meals and shopping,” the doorman said. – AAA spokesperson, Mark Jenkins.

A feature on AAA’s website offers a gas cost calculator to help you figure out how much it will cost to drive somewhere.

For example, taking an SUV from Tampa to the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee would cost around $225 round trip. Driving to Key West is $148 round trip. Just going to Orlando will cost you $28.51 round trip.

“I think that’s what you’re going to see because this year more and more Floridians are playing in their backyards because you don’t have to go very far to find something to do here. And you can save money on gas at the same time,” Jenkins said. AAA also says it helps to know where you’re going, plan your route, and maybe even research the best gas prices ahead of time.

“If you can plan things ahead, that has a lot of value in helping you optimize your fuel economy and get the most bang for your buck,” Jenkins said.

Some might consider flying, as driving isn’t as cheap as it used to be.

But kerosene prices are also rising, as are airline tickets. To try AAA’s gas cost calculator, go to https://gasprices.aaa.com/aaa-gas-cost-calculator/