Millions of Americans are preparing to leave for Memorial Day weekend.
Here's what you need to know if you're traveling on this vacation.
Texans prepare to travel for Memorial Day weekend
Texas is expected to see 3.6 million visitors this Memorial Day holiday, a 4.2% increase from last year, according to AAA. Nationally, 43.8 million people are expected to travel on Memorial Day, reflecting a 4.1% increase over the previous year and breaking the record for the number of travelers in 2005. It has almost reached 44 million people.
Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said people are eager to travel this time of year.
“We haven't seen this much travel over the Memorial Day weekend in the last 20 years,” she said. “We expect an additional 1 million more people to travel this weekend compared to 2019. Not only does this mean we have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, but it also marks the arrival of a very busy summer travel season. It means to.”
Popular destinations for Texans over Memorial Day weekend
According to AAA Texas Travel Advisor, the top Texas road trip destinations are:
- galveston
- corpus christi
- San Antonio River Walk
- fredericksburg
- texas hill country
- houston
- dallas
- austin
- various state parks
How many people are expected to travel by car and plane?
Airports are bracing for a surge in travelers, as AAA forecasts 3.51 million air passengers this weekend, up 4.8% from last year and 9% from 2019. Despite this increase, ticket prices remain at the same level as last year. Annual rates for Memorial Day weekend.
Many factors affect airfare, including destination, number of connections, and fare class. For example, a passenger who chooses a nonstop flight with amenities such as seat assignments and carry-on baggage can expect to pay more compared to a passenger who chooses basic economy with a layover.
How much does gas cost in Texas?
This upcoming Memorial Day weekend, motorists should expect gas prices to remain similar to last year, hovering around the national average of about $3.60.
The average gas price in Texas is $3.17, up from $3.08 last year, according to AAA.
more:Texas gas prices drop ahead of record Memorial Day weekend travel, AAA says
The best time to travel with AAA is Memorial Day weekend
- May 23: Before 11 a.m., after 7 p.m.
- May 24: Before 11 a.m., after 8 p.m.
- May 25: Before 1pm, after 6pm
- May 26: Before 1:00 p.m.
- May 27th: After 7pm
Memorial Day weekend is the worst time to travel for AAA
- May 23rd: 12:00 – 18:00
- May 24th: 12:00 – 19:00
- May 25th: 2pm to 5pm
- May 26th: 3pm to 7pm
- May 27th: 3pm to 7pm
Travel tips for Texans
AAA recommends that you do the following before traveling by road:
- Check your car's tires, battery, and fluid levels before a long road trip. AAA expects to rescue more than 378,000 stranded motorists across the country, including about 20,000 in Texas.
- Make sure you have food, water, a first aid kit, a first aid kit, and a cell phone charger in case of a breakdown.
- Book your summer trip now. High demand and reduced schedules mean fewer options.
- Plan your trip in advance and know alternate routes in case of traffic jams or road closures.
- Always wear your seat belt, obey speed limits, and avoid texting and other distractions while driving.
