Driving Saves Nearly $1,000


Even if gas prices hit $5 a gallon, the traditional family summer
vacation by vehicle costs less, is more convenient than and not as
stressful as flying, according to the Car Care Council. A family of four
traveling by car costs the same as one person traveling by air.

"Rising ticket prices, fewer daily flights, fuller planes, limited
baggage, fewer non-stops and longer layovers between connecting flights
doesn't paint a pretty picture for this summer's vacationing families
thinking about flying," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care
Council. "However, even with gas prices considerably higher than last
year, the cost of driving is a much better deal compared with going by
air."

Based on a family of four traveling 1,000 miles round-trip, the council
compared the cost of flying vs. driving.

By air:

A family of four traveling by air will spend an average of $1,324 for
tickets, based on 2007 fourth quarter statistics from the Bureau of
Transportation Statistics. However airline ticket prices have increased
a reported ten times since December, so the total average ticket price
today would exceed $1,300 for four persons. Add to this cost
transportation to and from the airport and/or parking.

By vehicle:

If gasoline prices were $5 a gallon, the cost for a family of four
traveling by SUV would be $343. These numbers not only includes the cost
of gasoline, but also tire wear and maintenance based on the American
Automobile Association's (AAA's) vehicle operating costs.

Besides the obvious direct cost savings, going by car offers a number of
advantages over flying including:

§ Leave when you want from where you want
§ No airport parking
§ No waiting in long ticket counter and security lines
§ No weather delays
§ Pack whatever and as much as you want
§ Stop and stretch any time
§ More and better meal options
§ No rental car expenses
§ More legroom and overall comfort
§ No strangers sitting next to you
§ Enjoy the ride