WILMINGTON -- It’s no surprise, gas prices are rising. "I think right now it's just ridiculous, I thought when it got to two dollars and fifty cents it would stop." Frequent drivers like Chris Smith are fed up with paying for high gas prices. "Three dollars, I can't afford that!" Experts suggest avoiding high speeds. By driving the speed limit you will reduce fuel consumption by fifteen percent. Also, use air conditioning only when necessary and service your vehicle frequently. AAA says the reason for the higher prices is because summer gas is more expensive to refine, which means summer travelers, can expect to pay more at the pump. "I think it's something you just have to budget for”. Brian Gordon is vacationing this week in the Port City, he says he prepared for the gas prices. “You gotta pay if you’re gonna play…if you're going to drive you pretty much have to expect to pay what the going price is”. As temperatures continue to rise, the going price of gas will rise too. For a list of the cheapest gas in our area, log on to www.northcarolinagasprices.com.