AAA Expects Busy Holiday Travel Weekend

The unofficial start to summer will be a busy one this year as AAA predicts 39.2 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home this Memorial Day weekend.

AAA predicts this holiday weekend, 39.2 million people nationwide will travel this weekend, 34.9 million people plan to travel by car despite historic gas prices, 3-million by air, and just over a million by bus or train.

That’s an increase of 8.3% over 2021, bringing travel volumes almost in line with those in 2017.

“Memorial Day is always a good predictor of what’s to come for summer travel,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president, AAA Travel. “Based on our projections, summer travel isn’t just heating up, it will be on fire. People are overdue for a vacation and they are looking to catch up on some much-needed R&R in the coming months.”

With volumes closing in on pre-pandemic levels, AAA urges travelers to remember flexibility is key this Memorial Day weekend.

AAA suggests looking to travel on off-peak times or days, and as for a weekend destination – pick a hidden gem closer to home or opt to stay at an all-inclusive resort with plenty of on-site activities.

That limits the need for a rental car and paying a la carte for entertainment and dining.

Based on AAA booking data, today is likely to be the busiest day for air travel this weekend with Monday being the lightest.

And for those hitting the road, today and Friday are anticipated to be peak traffic days.

AAA suggests reducing stress by getting your vehicle road trip ready with a full vehicle inspection.

Also get your vehicle’s key components checked like the battery, fuel system, tires, brakes, and fluid levels, and make sure your vehicle’s emergency kit is fully stocked.

AAA expects to respond to over 425,000 calls for help over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.