BOISE – As America’s roads and airports brace for a busy Labor Day weekend, AAA says that gas prices will be one of the many ways families can stretch their travel budget.
Today’s average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the Gem State is $3.48, which is two cents less than a week ago, a penny more than a month ago, and 12 cents less than a year ago.
The national average is faring even better, currently at $3.21 per gallon – about eight cents more than a week ago, seven cents more than a month ago, but 15 cents less than a year ago. Today, Idaho ranks 8th in the country for the most expensive gas after several weeks in 7th place.
Here’s a seven-year look at Labor Day pump prices:
| YEAR | IDAHO | U.S. |
| 2024 | $3.58 | $3.33 |
| 2023 | $4.16 | $3.81 |
| 2022 | $4.52 | $3.79 |
| 2021 | $3.79 | $3.19 |
| 2020 | $2.47 | $2.22 |
| 2019 | $2.80 | $2.58 |
| 2018 | $3.24 | $2.84 |
“Travelers won’t have to look too hard to find the silver lining over the holiday weekend – domestic flights, hotels, and airfare are all cheaper than a year ago,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “The sticking point may be the big crowds that take to the highways and byways.”
The worst times to travel will be this afternoon and tomorrow afternoon leaving town, and Monday afternoon on the return trip. AAA recommends getting an early start, whichever day you travel – and that includes making your way through the airport security line.
“If you’re heading up into the backcountry for one last summer camping trip, you could see very heavy traffic as you share the road with RVs and trailers hauling boats or ATVs,” Conde said. “Please avoid risky passing on two-lane roads. Better to get there safely than to arrive at a certain time.”
This year’s top Labor Day hotspots include Seattle, Anaheim, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Boston.
AAA travel tips
At the airport
- Download the airline app to keep track of the latest flight information
- Consolidate baggage in advance, and keep important medications, documents, and a change of clothes in your carry-on
- Pack a granola bar or protein bar in case you experience delays or need to eat on the go
On the road
- Check traffic cameras before you leave
- Share your route and expected arrival time with loved ones
- Top off engine fluids and check your tire pressure
- Bring an emergency kit, including first aid, flares or reflectors, basic tools, snacks, and water
- For longer trips, take breaks or switch drivers every couple of hours
- Drive carefully and avoid distractions
- Always wear your seat belt
“If you’re pulling a trailer, remember to check your trailer safety chains. They should be crisscrossed to catch the trailer if it comes loose from the hitch, and make sure you aren’t dragging chains on the ground where they could spark and cause a wildfire.”
Don’t forget:
- Mosquito repellent if you’re going camping
- An old towel to avoid contact with hot asphalt
- A group photo at the start of each day to quickly identify everyone in an emergency
- A fully charged cell phone
- Never remove a hot radiator cap
“If you’re going ATVing, it’s possible to travel farther in an hour than you can walk in a day. Take food, water, and first aid items on any excursion, even for just a short hike,” Conde said. “An injury or a vehicle breakdown becomes much more serious in a remote area.”
Use the AAA mobile app to find the location of the cheapest fuel and charging stations in your area.