Anticipating a rise in gas prices for Labor Day weekend, East Lansing motorists are fueling up before they hit the road.

An estimated 1.3 million Michigan motorists will be traveling during the long weekend, according to a survey by AAA Michigan, meaning more time will be spent at the pumps. Often, increased demand for gas costs consumers extra pennies at the gas station.

Food and industry management junior Raven McNeal said she was stocking up on gas before heading to Battle Creek this weekend.

“I’ll try and get as much gas as possible,” McNeal said. “It sure will save my pocket, being a college student and all.”

Gas prices have remained relatively stable this summer, averaging $1.43 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel, which is a penny lower than last year. On Tuesday, gas stations such as Speedway, 1301 E. Grand River Ave., sold regular gas for $1.32 per gallon.

East Lansing resident Jeanne Bashlight finished fueling up her green Honda Accord as a Speedway employee changed the prices. “Just in time,” Bashlight said.

Bashlight said she was aware a price hike could be in store for the weekend, so she hurried to fill up her car early.

But some students weren’t as concerned about higher prices ahead.

“If you need gas, you need gas,” no-preference sophomore John Szambelan said.

That attitude was common on the AAA Michigan survey, with 88 percent of travelers saying changes in gas price would have no impact on their travel plans.

The survey forecasts high gas demand, with about 90 percent of trips by vehicle, a rise from 78 percent in 2001.