The American Automobile Association is anticipating a record-tying nearly 44 million travelers — a vast majority hitting the road for at least 50 miles — on the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend. This influx of travelers is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels and signal a busy summer travel season ahead. The last time 44 million people hit the road on Memorial Day Weekend was in 2005, and this year’s projections are 4% higher than in 2023 and 1.9% above figures from 2019. With 38.4 million people expected to travel by car alone, it is important for travelers to be aware of the increased traffic and stay updated on traffic apps and local news stations to avoid delays.
In New York City, the Bronx to Albany section of the New York State Thruway is projected to see a 64% uptick in northbound volume at about 11:45 a.m. the Thursday before Memorial Day. Other high-traffic locations for the holiday weekend include Orlando, Las Vegas, Southern California, Seattle, Anchorage, Alaska, and Vancouver, Canada. Airports are also gearing up for an expected 3.51 million travelers, marking a 4.8% increase from last year and a 9% increase from 2019. Even buses, cruises, and trains are expected to see nearly 2 million people, a 5.6% surge compared to 2023. This surge in travel demand during the holiday weekend creates the perfect opportunity for getaways after a period of reduced travel during the pandemic.
Travel times are anticipated to be up to 90% longer than normal, according to transportation analyst Bob Pishue. To avoid sitting in traffic for extended periods, travelers are advised to stay up-to-date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations. The worst times to hit the road on Memorial Day Weekend have been identified, with congestion expected on Thursday, May 23 from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m., Friday, May 24 from 12:00 to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, May 25 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., Sunday, May 26 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., and Monday, May 27 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Travelers are advised to plan their trips accordingly to avoid peak travel times and minimize delays.
With Memorial Day Weekend marking the start of the summer travel season, the travel industry is preparing for a surge in travelers across various modes of transportation. For those who prefer to fly, airports are expected to see a significant increase in travelers, while buses, cruises, and trains are also anticipating a surge in passengers. This recovery in travel numbers marks a significant rebound for the industry, which was heavily impacted during the pandemic. As travel demand continues to soar, long holiday weekends like Memorial Day create ideal opportunities for individuals to take getaways and explore new destinations.
This anticipated increase in travel numbers for Memorial Day Weekend highlights the pent-up demand for travel experiences after a period of reduced activity during the pandemic. The travel industry is experiencing a revival with travelers eager to embark on vacations and explore new destinations. As more Americans hit the road for the holiday weekend, it is important for travelers to be prepared for potential congestion and longer travel times. By planning ahead, staying informed about traffic conditions, and avoiding peak travel times, individuals can navigate the roads more smoothly and enjoy a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.
