High Gas Prices May Disrupt Spring Break Travel Plans

Maryland drivers face sticker shock at the pump as gas prices surge amid the ongoing War in Iran.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 2:15am

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With the average price of regular gas in Maryland now at $3.76 per gallon, many drivers are concerned that the high prices will force them to cut back on or cancel their spring break travel plans. While some say they have no choice but to limit their driving and trips, AAA expects many people will still prioritize travel despite the economic challenges.

Why it matters

The rise in gas prices due to the War in Iran is putting a strain on household budgets, especially for single parents and those living paycheck-to-paycheck. This could significantly impact the tourism industry and local economies that rely on spring break travel and spending.

The details

Maryland drivers are facing steep increases at the gas pump, with the average price for regular gas now at $3.76 per gallon. This is causing many to rethink their spring break travel plans, with some saying they can no longer afford to take longer trips. However, AAA expects that many people will still prioritize travel, even if it means cutting back on other expenses.

  • The War in Iran has been ongoing for 3 weeks as of March 18, 2026.

The players

Elyse Hock

A Maryland resident who says the high gas prices are "really, really high".

Dena Diepold

A single mother who says the high gas prices are impacting her paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyle, but she hopes the prices will improve soon.

Myhao Nguyen

A Maryland driver who has had to limit her driving to only local trips due to the high gas prices.

Michael Robinson

A Maryland driver who says he cannot afford any travel due to the current gas prices.

Ragina Ali

A spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic who says that while travel could be impacted, people may still prioritize trips and find ways to cut back on other expenses.

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What they’re saying

“I mean, it's impacting me because I'm a single mom and paycheck to paycheck, but I have a feeling it's going to get better.”

— Dena Diepold

“Honestly, with the way things are going with the war… no travel.”

— Michael Robinson

“Travel could be impacted, but we know that people typically sort of want to get away, so there may still be that desire, and there will be other ways that they can cut back and save if they choose to do so.”

— Ragina Ali, Spokesperson, AAA Mid-Atlantic

What’s next

AAA expects that the impact of high gas prices on spring break travel plans will become clearer in the coming weeks as people finalize their vacation plans.

The takeaway

The surge in gas prices due to the War in Iran is putting a significant financial strain on Maryland drivers, forcing many to reconsider their spring break travel plans. However, the desire to get away may still motivate some to find ways to cut back on other expenses in order to take their trips.