PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — It's almost time to fire up the grill. Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer, is just around the corner, and travelers are gearing up for a busy weekend.
“Summer travel is coming back in a big way,” said Jillian Young, president of AAA Northeast. “We predict nearly 44 million people will travel this year, exceeding pre-pandemic levels for the first time.”
Driving recommendations
Mr Young said the majority of people would travel by car.
“If you are traveling on a Thursday or Friday, we recommend leaving early in the morning or in the evening as you definitely want to avoid mixing with commuters.”
If your trip ends on a Sunday, Young recommends getting home early to avoid nighttime traffic. On the other hand, if you're planning on heading home on Monday, AAA recommends enjoying the day and leaving later in the evening.
air travel
Airports will also be busy with people heading to vacation destinations, Young told 12 News. AAA expects 3.5 million travelers to take to the skies this Memorial Day weekend.
She encouraged people to consider protecting their tickets with travel insurance.
“There is a new U.S. Department of Transportation rule requiring airlines to refund passengers for significantly altered flights, but it has not yet been implemented,” she said.
Car rental
If you're planning on renting a car, do it now, says Young.
“Boston is one of the busiest hubs for rental cars,” she told 12 News. “Rent a car if you haven't already.”
