As Labor Day weekend approaches, travelers are gearing up for one last summer getaway.
This year, Labor Day falls on Sept. 2, marking the end of a record-breaking travel season. Travel during the final long weekend of summer will be busy within the U.S., with domestic travel up by 9% from last year, according to AAA.
Those driving to their destination can expect heavy traffic, especially during peak travel hours. But they can at least enjoy lower gas prices: The national average is about 20 cents a gallon less than last year’s holiday weekend.
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This year, international travel is down 4% from 2023, likely because of rising costs. According to AAA booking numbers, international travel for Labor Day weekend 2024 costs 11% more than last year.
Here’s what travelers can expect for Labor Day weekend 2024.
What are the most popular domestic destinations for Labor Day?
This year, many U.S. travelers are heading toward Seattle with bookings for the Emerald City up nearly 30% from last year, according to AAA’s booking data. Some will be continuing to Alaska, with Anchorage and Juneau also topping the list for the most popular U.S. end-of-summer destinations.
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“This is the time of year to go on an Alaska cruises,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release. “There are fewer crowds compared to earlier in the summer, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of fall colors! It’s no surprise Alaska cruises are sold out this Labor Day weekend.”
What are the worst times to drive for Labor Day?
The roads will be most congested during the afternoons of Thursday, Aug. 29, and Friday and early evening and morning of Saturday. Returning home from the long weekend, drivers can expect the worst traffic during the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 1, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday and the morning of Tuesday.
“Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a statement. “Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day.”
What are the best times to drive for Labor Day?
If you’re hoping to avoid traffic jams, plan to hit the road at night or the early morning. The best times to drive for Labor Day weekend are before 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29, before noon or after 7 p.m. on Friday, and after noon on Saturday.
For returning home, depart before noon on Sunday, Sept. 1, before 10 a.m. on Monday, or after 1 p.m. on Tuesday.
How busy will airports be during Labor Day weekend?
Very. This Labor Day weekend in particular is expected to have 8.5% more travelers than last year’s, so pack your patience (unless you have TSA PreCheck, then you may be more in luck.)
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Those who have flied recently likely already know this as this summer season has been incredibly busy for security checkpoints. The top 10 busiest air travel days of the entire year happened during the summer and TSA broke records during the two other major holiday weekends, Memorial Day and Fourth of July.
Tips for a speedy security checkpoint
- Arrive early, even if your flight is domestic. TSA recommends you get to the airport two hours before your flight to give yourself enough time to get to the gate. For international flights, three hours should do.
- Have your stuff properly packed. Save precious time by making sure your liquids are the right amounts – that’s 3.4 ounces if you forgot – and kept in a clear plastic bag. If you’re bringing breast milk, powdered formula, sippy cups or liquid or cream medication, that should be separated and placed in its own bin at security. It’s also recommended that medicine is kept in its original, marked container.
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