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As Labor Day weekend approaches, millions of Americans are expected to hit the road or take to the skies for a quick end-of-summer getaway.
Domestic travel increased 9% this year Labor Day Weekend compared to last year, according to an Aug. 19 report from the American Automobile Association.
More, travel expenses Gas prices are also down slightly from last year, AAA said, and the national average for gas prices is down about 30 cents from 2023.
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“Despite the popularity of summer road trips, overall gasoline demand is down as daily driving habits have changed post-pandemic, keeping pump prices from rising,” the statement said, although that could change if a hurricane was supposed to hit the Gulf Coast, AAA warned.
By land or air, millions of Americans are expected to travel this Labor Day weekend. (Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty Images; Taylor Glascok/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Read on for some additional tips and tricks for traveling smart.
1. Watch your timing
While it's not always possible to set out on a road trip at a specific time, there are certain times you should avoid if possible, according to a recent study by INRIX, a software company that provides traffic updates.
The absolute peak travel period over Labor Day weekend will be Thursday, Aug. 29, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., the organization said.
Labor Day weekend travel is up 9% compared to 2023 travel, AAA said. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews, file)
Thursday will be the “busiest day” for car travel, he said.
Other peak times for car travel that should be avoided include:
- Friday, August 30, between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
- Saturday, August 31, between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.
- Sunday, September 1st, between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
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If possible, travelers should try to depart before 11 a.m. on Thursday, before noon or after 7 p.m. on Friday, after noon on Saturday and before noon on Sunday, INRIX said in data provided to Fox News Digital.
This holiday weekend, avoid rush hour for a smoother driving experience. (iStock)
Roads are also expected to be busy Monday and Tuesday, INRIX said, as people return home from vacation.
If possible, travellers should avoid driving between 11am and 8pm on Monday and leave before 10am, he said.
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Roads will be busiest on Tuesday between 8 a.m. and noon, and the best time to travel will be after 1 p.m., he said.
2. Reserve your airport parking space before leaving home
Many airports allow people to reserve and pay for parking before arriving at the lot, even several days before a trip.
Sometimes it’s a money-saving option. And during peak times like Labor Day weekend, it can be a huge relief to arrive at the airport and know you won’t see a “garage full” sign.
By reserving parking in advance, a person can save time and possibly money as well. (iStock)
3. Arrive earlier than necessary
If you take a plane or train during the holiday weekendIt is recommended to arrive earlier than expected.
This means traffic jams, parking problems and long lines at security checks – or any other surprises – won't disrupt your travel plans.
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It is best to arrive at the airport about two hours before the scheduled flight time.
4. Avoid checking baggage if you can.
Every year, thousands of bags are lost by airlines.
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If a person can avoid checking a bag, do so — especially on a holiday weekend, AAA told Fox News Digital.
Avoid checking a bag if possible, especially during busy travel times, AAA advises. (iStock)
But if travelers need to check in baggage, there is lots of advice This can help give a bag the best possible chance of arriving at its destination.
5. Expect the best, but prepare for the worst
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
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“Prepare a road trip emergency kit with extra water and snacks,” a AAA representative told Fox News Digital.
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According to the AAA website, a car emergency kit should also include jumper cables, first aid items and a flashlight.
6. Check your car before leaving
Before heading out on your trip, “check your oil, tires and battery,” AAA told Fox News Digital.
Be sure to check your car's oil, tires and battery before heading out on your trip, AAA said. (iStock)
This way, any potential problems can be identified before they manifest themselves on the road.
