The majority of Ontarians say the increase in gas prices this summer has put a crimp in their summer plans, according to a new survey.
The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) released the survey results, from Ipsos, on Wednesday morning. Among adults aged 35 to 54 who were interviewed, seven out of ten said high gas prices have affected their daily routine.
Among the consequences mentioned by those surveyed are household budgets forcing people to make difficult choices about their spending and driving habits.
"For many Ontario families, higher gas prices aren't just affecting how often they fill up the tank, they're changing everyday decisions about where they go, what they buy, and how they spend their money," said CAA South Central Ontario Assistant Vice President of Government and Community Relations Teresa DiFelice.
Some households have reported driving less and taking public transit more, along with cutting back on ordering takeout and skipping the daily coffee run.
The survey also said that six in ten of those interviewed say gas prices may alter their summer travel plans.
DiFelice said gas prices approaching $2 per litre have had people getting creative with their planning, such as "staycations" or tightening their budgets.
The Ipsos survey was conducted between May 27 to June 4, with a sample of 1,000 Ontarians interviewed online. Data was weighed by age, gender, and region. The poll had a 3.8 per cent margin of error.
CAA recommends a few adjustments to improve vehicle efficiency. These include proper tire inflation, using cruise control, and taking rooftop carriers or bike racks off your vehicles when you're not using them.
