As gas prices rise, students are forced to change their travel plans in order to save money and afford trips.

According to Texas Gas Prices website, the average regular gas price in Abilene is $3.55, slightly less than the Texas average of $3.53. Three years ago, the average price in Texas rarely eclipsed $2.90.

Some students have gone to great measures to save money because of the gas prices. Shannon Ball, a junior elementary education major from Grapevine, said that she has made many travel changes.

“Because of the raise in gas prices, I had to buy a new car that got better gas mileage,” Ball said. “I go home a lot less and my roommates and I are now forced to alternate drivers.”

But not all changes are negative; some  have helped students make better management decisions. Kendyl Cooper, a junior pre-occupational therapy major from Mineral Wells, said she now makes stronger financial decisions because gas prices have forced her to plan ahead.

“The price increase affects me, but I would say in a good way,” Cooper said. “I’m more conscious of what I have in my pocket because I know how much I will need in my account to get me where I need to be, especially for longer trips. I don’t really have many places I need to go because most of my friends are in Abilene, but when I do, I make sure I can afford to get there.”

If the prices continue to increase, students may have to find new methods of transportation in order to save money. Colton McCoy, a sophomore biology major from Granbury, said he is fond of the gas-powered car, but isn’t against alternatives.

“Usually, to save money I have carpooled with friends,” McCoy said. “I really like the gas-powered car. There’s nothing like the sound of a gas engine, but I guess if prices raised to $5 a gallon, I might consider switching to an electric-powered car.”