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RALEIGH -- North Carolinians looking to take a road trip over the weekend are in luck. For the first time this year, it's cheaper to fill up than it was at this time in 2011.

The temperatures rise and gas prices drop. AAA says the average price for a gallon of gas is nearly three cents lower than last year. It's not a bad deal considering the high prices we've seen at the pump this year.

The cost to fill up with regular unleaded fuel in the Tar Heel state is about five cents cheaper than the national average of $3.80. The average price in North Carolina is now $3.75. Last week, it cost six cents more to fill up and last year it was $3.87.

According to AAA, weakening overseas economies, especially China, are pushing down the cost to fill up because less consumption of crude oil weakens the demand. Also, Americans are driving a little less this year.

AAA says the highest price drivers in North Carolina paid for regular unleaded gas this year was $3.91 on April 7. Since then, prices have been dropping daily.

AAA of the Carolinas expects the downward trend through the summer months, which is when most drivers hit the road.