As Labor Day approaches, travelers are finalizing their getaway plans, and Seattle has emerged as the most popular destination in the U.S. for the second consecutive year. According to AAA booking data, the Emerald City has seen a remarkable 30% increase in popularity among domestic travelers this year. This surge in interest comes as no surprise, as domestic travel is experiencing a significant boost overall, with a 9% increase in bookings compared to last year. Americans are taking advantage of a slight decrease in travel costs within the U.S., making it more affordable to explore their own country. AAA reports that the cost of domestic trips has decreased by 2%, providing a welcome relief for those planning a last-minute getaway. Additionally, gas prices have dropped to around $3.50 per gallon, down from $3.81 during Labor Day weekend last year, further enhancing the affordability of road trips.
While domestic travel is thriving, fewer Americans are planning to travel internationally over Labor Day weekend compared to 2023. The rising cost of international travel, which has increased by 11%, has likely contributed to this shift in travel preferences. Despite the increased cost, European destinations remain the top choice for those venturing abroad, with eight of the top ten international destinations booked through AAA located in Europe.
Travelers should anticipate busy airports and roads starting Thursday, August 29th. According to Inrix, a transportation data and insights provider, the busiest travel times will be Thursday and Friday afternoons. To avoid traffic headaches, experts recommend hitting the road early in the morning on these days or waiting until Saturday afternoon to depart. Traffic is also expected to be heavy on Sunday afternoon and Labor Day, Monday, September 2nd. To minimize travel-related stress, travelers are encouraged to monitor traffic apps, local news, and 511 traveler information services to navigate congestion and stay informed about potential delays.
