Labor Day holiday travel in the United States this year (August 28 to September 3) is expected to reach a record high. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a total of 17.4 million people are expected to pass through airport security nationwide, far exceeding previous years for the same period. Friday (August 30) is anticipated to be the busiest day, with increased pressure on flights and airport crowds. Travelers are advised to plan ahead.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) and traffic data company INRIX report that majority of travelers will be driving themselves. Friday afternoon and Saturday morning are expected to have the most congested road conditions, especially on major highways such as I-25, I-95, and I-70, where long delays may occur.
AAA information shows that gasoline prices during the Labor Day weekend are around $3.17 per gallon, a decrease of about $0.16 compared to last year, reaching a relatively low level in recent years, which is highly attractive to those planning self-driving trips.
TSA reminds passengers that August 30 will be one of the busiest days for security screenings all year, with an estimated nearly 3 million people passing through security. If choosing to travel on that day, travelers should arrive at the airport early and pre-plan boarding and luggage check-in.
Apart from the decrease in gasoline prices, this summer has seen an average 6% drop in airfare prices, an 11% decrease in hotel costs, and a 3% decline in car rental prices, all of which help boost people’s willingness to travel. However, some are still affected by economic pressures, choosing to shorten their holidays or reduce the scale of their trips.
Popular travel destinations include Seattle, Orlando, New York, and Denver, with travelers opting for diverse choices in their destinations.
For air travelers:
It is recommended to depart on Thursday (August 28) and return on Monday (September 1) to avoid peak times and improve flight punctuality.
For drivers:
It is advisable to depart early in the morning to avoid afternoon traffic, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Preparations:
Book flights and accommodation in advance, check the condition of the vehicle, and allocate sufficient time for boarding or transferring arrangements.