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MEDIA RELEASE: CAA Manitoba survey finds rising gas prices are impacting how Manitobans drive, travel and spend this summer

Manitobans rethink their driving habits when gas prices reach around $2.10 per litre

Aug 5, 2026

3 min

Ewald Friesen


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Rising gas prices are having a real impact on how Manitobans manage their daily routines and summer plans, according to a new survey from CAA Manitoba.


The survey found that about six in ten Manitobans say higher fuel costs are affecting their day-to-day lives, with many cutting back on driving and adjusting spending to make ends meet.


“Manitobans are making thoughtful choices to stretch their budgets, whether that’s driving a little less, planning trips more carefully or finding ways to save at the pump,” says Ewald Friesen, manager, government & community relations for CAA Manitoba.


Many respondents said they begin to rethink their habits when gas prices reach around $2.10 per litre, a point where costs start to influence decisions about how and when they travel.


The most common changes include driving less for everyday needs (35 per cent), cutting spending in other areas (23 per cent), and reducing or eliminating some activities entirely (23 per cent).


Summer travel is still a priority, with adjustments


Despite higher fuel costs, road trips remain a popular choice this summer, with more than seven in ten Manitobans planning to hit the road.


However, nearly six in ten say rising gas prices are likely to influence those plans, prompting many to take fewer trips, travel shorter distances or adjust their budgets.


“Travel is still important to Manitobans, especially during the summer months, but people are being more mindful about how they plan those trips,” adds Friesen.


Saving at the pump is becoming a priority for Manitobans


Manitobans are also actively looking for ways to manage fuel costs. The survey shows that most drivers are taking steps to save money on gas, with many turning to loyalty programs, comparing prices at different stations, or using apps to find the best deal. More than half say they are also considering alternative ways to get around more often, such as walking, cycling, or using transit where possible.


Simple tips to stretch your fuel budget:


  • CAA Manitoba encourages drivers to take simple steps to improve fuel efficiency and make the most of every tank, especially during busy summer travel months:


  • Plan routes in advance to avoid backtracking and unnecessary mileage: Plan the most efficient route to your destination and avoid backtracking and unnecessary mileage.  


  • Remove extra weight from your vehicle: Reducing your vehicle’s weight can help improve your fuel efficiency when on trips.    


  • Avoid leaving your rooftop luggage carriers or bike racks on your vehicles when you are not using them: Items on top of the car significantly increase aerodynamic drag, reducing fuel economy.  


  • Control your speed: Fuel consumption starts to increase above 90-105 km/h. For long stretches of road ahead, use cruise control to maintain your speed to save fuel. 


  • Drive conservatively: If you find yourself stuck in long weekend traffic, avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, which can lower fuel economy by 15 to 30 per cent at highway speeds and 10 to 40 per cent in stop-and-go traffic. 


  • Keep up with regular car maintenance: Underinflated tires increase fuel consumption by up to four per cent. With regular maintenance services, you can help your vehicle run more efficiently.


  • Take advantage of reward programs and tools to find lower prices: CAA members save three cents per litre when they load their membership card in the Shell app or use it at the pump. 


“These small actions can add up over time and help make driving more affordable,” says Friesen.


CAA Manitoba continues to advocate for drivers by sharing timely information and practical advice to help Manitobans navigate rising costs and stay mobile year-round.





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Ewald Friesen

Ewald Friesen

Manager, Government and Community Relations

Ewald manages CAA's advocacy and community relations efforts in Manitoba.

Congestion ManagementSchool Zone SafetyRoad SafetyGovernment & Community RelationsPolicy Advocacy
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