AAA expects near record-breaking Memorial Day travel – see the best times to drive

ERIE, Pa. ( WJET/WFXP ) – With the unofficial start of summer on Memorial Day weekend just a week away, AAA said they’re expecting the number of people traveling to hit highs not seen since the beginning of the century.

AAA is projecting approximately 43.8 million to travel at least 50 miles from their home this coming Memorial Day weekend, the second most since 2005, when a record 44 million people traveled for the holiday.

“Long holiday weekends like Memorial Day are the perfect way to kick off the summer travel season, and Americans will be traveling in record-breaking numbers this year,” said Bevi Powell, senior vice president of AAA East Central. “Whether it’s a family road trip, a luxury cruise, or a train trip across New England, travelers are making choices that will ensure they have the trip of a lifetime.”

By far, the leading way people are expected to travel is road trips. AAA is projecting a record-setting 38.4 million people to hit the road for the weekend, the most since they started tracking holiday travel in 2000 and a 4% increase from last year.

In the Mid-Atlantic region — which includes New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania — AAA is projecting 4.6 million people to drive with planes and all other methods, adding up to just over 500,000 estimated travelers.

As far as gas costs, AAA said drivers can expect similar prices to last year despite the rise in prices lately, although they also said ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine could drive prices up.

Drivers leaving Thursday or Friday are also being advised to hit the road early as travel times are expected to increase by 90% between getting mixed in with local commuters and the increase of other road travelers.

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX.

Before going on a long road trip, AAA said travelers should get their cars checked for any repairs needed along with other standard maintenance, plan their routes ahead with stops included and have everything ready to go the night before leaving, among other travel tips.

Travelers can also call 511 for up-to-date travel information or by checking out the 511 website of any state they’re in for a live map of the area and any hazards.

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