Motorists may be dreading filling up at gas stations as they head out for the long weekend.

Dan McTeague, senior petroleum analyst at gasbuddy.com, says there's a lot of factors that determine the price at the pumps.

"Before everyone starts rolling their eyes they have to recognize that gasoline for a station costs them about 84 cents a litre (when the prices are at 92 cents). Throw in another two cents for honouring your credit card because all those rewards and free money doesn't come free for the retailer."

He adds that you can't operate a gas station without a 6 or 7 cent a litre margin.

According to McTeague, motorists shouldn't see a huge jump in prices over the weekend.

"I'm not expecting a major increase and I don't think many retailers can afford to lose money selling gasoline, especially when the demand pretty much doubles in a weekend like this."

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