By ALEXIS ZOTOS
6 News Reporter
KNOXVILLE (WATE) - The mere threat of Tropical Storm Isaac has gas prices rising across the country and in Knoxville.
According to AAA, local and national prices took a big jump overnight. On Friday, the average in Knoxville was $3.51 for a gallon of regular. That's up a nickel from Thursday, when it was $3.46. It's up a quarter from this time in July, when the price was $3.26.
Drivers heading out of town this weekend, especially those going to the Food City 250 race in Bristol, are feeling the strain on their wallets.
"Driving this vehicle is costing quite a bit," explained Kevin Bonsack of the large van his family is driving to Bristol.
The Bonsack family is traveling from Illinois, and the gas prices are making it a pricey trip. "We've probably got to fill up a few more times, a couple hundred dollar trip," Bonsack said.
Gas prices jumped overnight, shaking up the budget for travelers. "It hurts because you're not ready for it," said Dave Trimpe, who just drove down with friends from Cleveland.
But several out of state drivers say prices in Tennessee are actually a blessing. "On the way down, it was $3.70 or so. This is the cheapest so far," Trimpe said.
Bonsack agreed. "We've only had to fill up twice so far and actually (Tennessee) is cheaper."
But many East Tennesseans say they'll go out of their way to find the cheapest gas. According to Gas Buddy, the Sunoco on John Sevier Highway was the cheapest in the area Friday, at $3.39 a gallon.
"Normally you can get gas a little bit cheaper here at Sunoco," Ron Hartseol said.
"It's a better price than all the other stations I saw," said Ray Lindsey, who adds that he always seeks out the cheapest spot in town.
The Jones family filled the tank to head to Bristol, and they hope the price doesn't continue to rise. "Hopefully they stay around $3.50, I hope," Johnny Jones said.
But for NASCAR fans, the excitement of race day eases the price at the pump. "We'll probably spend about $200, but it's worth it," Jones said.
On Friday, the average in Knoxville was $3.51 for a gallon of regular. That's up a nickel from Thursday.
