Gas prices hit 12-year low, Fourth of July road travel may break records

This year, Americans are celebrating their freedom by traveling out of town.

The Fourth of July weekend is expected to see more trips than ever before, according to AAA.

It says 37.5 million Americans will drive to their destinations -- the good news being the low prices at the pump right now.

The nationwide average is $2.21 per gallon for the holiday weekend, according to Gas Buddy. That's the lowest it's been since 2005.

The cheapest gas on average is in South Carolina, Oklahoma and Indiana. Prices at some stations plunge to $1.49.

That made a difference to travelers like Jonathan Payne, who's driving out to the Ozarks to celebrate Independence Day.

"To be honest with you, usually during the holidays, that's when gas prices go up. It's a miracle they actually want to lower the gas prices," said Payne.

Gas Buddy shows the lowest price in Kansas City is $1.84, which makes sense after Monday morning U.S. gas prices dropped.

For the first time ever, gas prices are expected to be lower on the Fourth than on New Year's Day.

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