Get Ready for Record-Breaking Memorial Day Weekend Travel: Essential Tips for Your Perfect Trip!

Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest travel times in the U.S., and this year is expected to break records. According to AAA, around 45.1 million people will hit the road or board planes between Thursday and Monday. That’s the highest number since 2005!

Stacey Barber from AAA highlights that many families are opting for road trips to the beach or visiting friends. About 39.4 million travelers will be driving this year, which is an increase of 1 million from last year. Fortunately, gas prices are at their lowest for Memorial Day Weekend since 2021, providing some relief to drivers.

Flying is also gaining popularity, with around 3.61 million people expected to take to the skies—up 2% from last year. The TSA is preparing for a surge, expecting to screen about 18 million passengers. They remind everyone to have the right ID, especially since the REAL ID requirement has changed the way travelers need to prepare.

However, traveling isn’t without its challenges. Seth Kaplan, a transportation analyst, notes that safety concerns and air traffic control issues could lead to uncertainties about whether flights will be full. Travelers have also expressed frustrations about potential delays, especially after recent high-profile incidents.

To ease travel stress, the TSA recommends organizing your carry-ons and double-checking rules, especially around liquids and the latest restrictions on lithium batteries.

For those driving, planning ahead can make a big difference. INRIX, a transportation analytics firm, advises hitting the road before peak times. They expect Friday afternoon to be especially congested.

Regardless of how you’re traveling, being prepared can help. AAA suggests packing an emergency kit and mapping out your journey in advance, including rest stops.

In summary, whether you’re driving or flying this Memorial Day weekend, a little preparation goes a long way in making your journey smoother.



Source link