With Labor Day weekend nearly here, millions of Americans are expected to hit the road or take to the skies for a quick, end-of-summer-season getaway.
Domestic travel is up 9% this Labor Day weekend compared to last year, according to an Aug. 19 report from the American Automobile Association.
Plus, travel costs are down slightly from last year as well, AAA said, and the national average for gas prices has dropped about 30 cents compared to 2023.
“Despite the popularity of summer road trips, overall gas demand is down as daily driving habits have changed post-pandemic, preventing pump prices from spiking,” according to the release, although that may change if a hurricane were to hit the Gulf Coast, AAA warned.
Read on for some additional tips and tricks for smart travel.
1. Plan Your Departure Strategically
Planning is everything when it comes to travel, especially during busy holiday seasons. A study by INRIX shows that the most congested travel time during Labor Day weekend will occur on Thursday, August 29, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Roads will be teeming with vehicles, each carrying stories, laughter, and moments of nostalgia. It’s not just a matter of avoiding traffic; it’s about savoring the journey ahead.
Other hours to sidestep to keep the trip enjoyable include:
- Friday, August 30, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, August 31, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Sunday, September 1, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
On Monday and Tuesday, delays are also expected as travelers return home, with the busiest time on Tuesday between 8 a.m. and noon. When everyone is hustling homeward, thoughtful planning will make a world of difference.
2. Secure Your Airport Parking Early
To streamline travel, consider reserving parking in advance. Many local airports offer this convenience, allowing travelers to determine their own fate regarding parking availability. Arriving to an empty space ready for their vehicle can set a positive tone for the trip.
In busy periods, encountering a “garage full” sign can be nothing but a stressful surprise, and with high expectations for relaxation, who needs that?
3. Arrive Ahead of Schedule
Airports are bustling hubs of activity, and particularly during busy weekends, it’s wise to build in some buffer time. Arriving a solid two hours before your flight allows one to inhale the atmosphere, soak in the anticipatory buzz, and adjust to possible unexpected delays.
Remember the last time he or she rushed through the terminal? Those moments can be frantic, undermining the very essence of what travel means.
4. Consider Baggage Wisely
It’s no secret—that every year, countless bags are lost by airlines. Thus, an introspective approach would be to minimize the baggage checked in whenever possible. With each item packed, a tiny piece of the traveler’s heart can feel at stake. Yet, if checked baggage is unavoidable, adhere to best practices to keep everything secure.
5. Prepare for All Possibilities
Traveling is a leap into the unknown. While hoping for the best, it’s prudent to pack an emergency kit in the car. Including essentials like jumper cables and a flashlight reflects a mindset that embraces both adventure and caution.
6. Perform a Vehicle Check Before Setting Off
Whether it’s the rumble of the engine or the squeal of the brakes, a pre-trip vehicle inspection can reveal insights into a journey’s potential pitfalls. Discovering a tire issue before hitting the road can transform a stressful mishap into a smooth start to the trip.
