Drivers advised to travel early in the day to avoid heavy traffic
The final long weekend of summer is here, and travelers are hitting the road, taking to the skies, and setting out for memorable adventures. As millions prepare for Labor Day travel, AAA Central Penn is sharing tips to help travelers make the most of the season’s “Last Hurrah” while avoiding common travel headaches.
As summer comes to an end, many travelers are taking advantage of the final long holiday weekend before fall arrives. Whether it’s a getaway to a historic city, a visit to a national park, or a trip to see family and friends, Labor Day remains one of the most popular times to travel.
Expect Heavy Traffic on Thursday and Friday
Unlike longer holiday periods, Labor Day travel is concentrated into a short window. Many travelers will hit the road after work on Thursday or throughout the day on Friday, adding holiday traffic to already busy commuter routes.
AAA recommends:
- Leaving early in the morning on Thursday or Friday whenever possible
- Avoiding travel during the middle of the afternoon
- Allowing extra time for delays near major cities and popular destinations
- Monitoring traffic conditions using navigation apps, 511 services, and local news
Travelers returning home on Sunday are expected to see lighter traffic. However, those heading home on Labor Day Monday should avoid afternoon travel when return-trip traffic is expected to peak.
Top Labor Day Destinations
According to AAA booking data, travelers are heading to a mix of urban destinations, outdoor adventures, and international hotspots this Labor Day.
Top 10 Domestic Destinations
- Seattle, Washington
- Orlando, Florida
- New York, New York
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Anchorage, Alaska
- Chicago, Illinois
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Denver, Colorado
- Miami, Florida
- Las Vegas, Nevada
Looking for trip inspiration? Explore AAA’s travel resources and vacation planning services at https://centralpenn.aaa.com/travel.
Top 10 International Destinations
- Vancouver, Canada
- Rome, Italy
- Dublin, Ireland
- London, England
- Paris, France
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Barcelona, Spain
- Athens, Greece
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Lisbon, Portugal
For travelers considering a future international getaway, visit https://centralpenn.aaa.com/travel/vacation-planning for destination ideas, travel advisors, and exclusive member benefits.
Prepare Your Vehicle Before You Go
Before hitting the road, AAA recommends completing a quick vehicle inspection:
- Check tire pressure and tread depth
- Test your battery
- Top off essential fluids
- Confirm lights and wipers are functioning properly
Drivers should also pack an emergency kit that includes:
- Water and snacks
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Phone charger
- Jumper cables
Last Labor Day weekend, AAA responded to more than 400,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide for issues such as flat tires, dead batteries, and towing needs.
For additional travel preparation tips, visit https://centralpenn.aaa.com/automotive.
Budget for Higher Fuel Costs
Travelers should also prepare for higher fuel costs than last year. As of August 31, Pennsylvania’s average gas price stood at $4.08 per gallon, compared to $3.19 one year ago. Prices may continue to fluctuate as hurricane season approaches its peak.
Drivers can locate nearby fuel stations and compare prices using the AAA Fuel Prices website.
Flying This Labor Day?
For those taking to the skies, airfare trends vary by destination.
- International flights are averaging 4% less than last year.
- Domestic flights are averaging 2% higher than last year.
- Airfare to several top domestic destinations is averaging 20% higher than last year.
Travelers renting vehicles should also plan ahead, as Friday, September 4, is expected to be the busiest day for rental car pickups.
Make the Most of Summer’s Final Getaway
Whether you’re headed to a nearby campsite, a bustling city, or an overseas adventure, planning ahead can help make your Labor Day trip safer and less stressful. By leaving early, preparing your vehicle, and staying informed about traffic conditions, you’ll be ready to enjoy one last summer escape before the season comes to a close.
Travel Smarter with the AAA Mobile App: Before you head out, download the AAA Mobile App for turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, current gas prices, roadside assistance, and instant access to thousands of AAA Discounts & Rewards® offers along your route. It’s a convenient way to save time and money while keeping your trip on track.
