BOISE – Summer is almost over, but many Americans are still planning one last getaway for Labor Day.
According to AAA, the busiest times on the road will be Thursday, September 3, and Friday, September 4 beginning around midday. The best time to travel will be early mornings.
“While AAA does not predict the number of travelers for Labor Day, we’ve set records for every other major holiday this year,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Determined people are finding a way to keep exploring and connecting, and that willingness to adapt means busy roads and crowded airports.”
The cost of Labor Day travel
AAA booking data reveals the average cost of travel:
- Domestic flights are 2% more expensive than a year ago, and 20% higher for the most popular cities
- Domestic hotels are 9% more expensive than a year ago
- Domestic car rentals are 8% cheaper than a year ago
- Cruises departing from domestic cities are 4% cheaper than a year ago
Where are Idahoans traveling?
This year’s top Labor Day destinations include:
- Anaheim, CA
- Las Vegas
- Orlando, FL
- Oregon Coast
- Bend, OR
- Denver, CO
- Yellowstone/Grand Teton
- Anchorage, AK (Alaska cruising)
- San Diego, CA
- Billings, MT
“Visiting the Great Outdoors before the weather turns is a high priority for a lot of people – including that final camping trip or family reunion,” Conde said. “Plan on the two-lane highways and state parks being really busy as people take the RV or the toy trailer out for one last hurrah.”
AAA to the rescue
AAA predicts around 413,000 requests nationwide for emergency road service over the holiday weekend. Please complete a pre-trip vehicle inspection of your battery, tires, and engine fluids to reduce your risk of travel delays.
“Your engine has been working hard all summer – make sure your coolant and other fluid levels are topped off,” Conde said. “The win-win is that you’ll also get out in front of any repairs or maintenance before winter sets in.”
AAA safety reminders
Here are some things to remember when you hit the road:
- Watch your speed. Getting there safely is better than getting there quickly.
- Be patient with other drivers. Avoid tailgating and other aggressive actions.
- Let your co-pilot hand out snacks and take care of the texting.
- Get plenty of sleep before you get behind the wheel. Trade off with another driver or stop every few hours for rest breaks.
- Watch for motorcycles and anticipate the presence of many recreational vehicles.
- Never drive impaired.
