Americans are gearing up for a busy Memorial Day weekend, with more than 45 million people expected to travel at least 50 miles from home, according to a forecast by the American Automobile Association (AAA). If the projection holds true, it will mark one of the busiest holiday weekends on record — especially on the roads.
AAA anticipates that 87% of travelers will drive to their destinations, with over a million more motorists expected compared to last year.
This would set a new record for the number of drivers hitting the road during the Memorial Day period.
Also, drivers are getting a bit of a break at the pump. According to the latest data from AAA, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.17, down significantly from $3.59 this time last year.
Gas prices vary widely across the country. Mississippi currently boasts the lowest average at $2.66 per gallon, while California drivers are paying the highest prices, with an average of $4.89 per gallon.
In Fairfield, drivers are seeing prices just above the $3 mark — slightly below the national average, but still higher than some surrounding regions.
The dip in prices comes as more than 45 million Americans are expected to travel for the holiday weekend, most of them by car. AAA credits lower gas prices as one factor contributing to the expected surge in road travel.
Still, with demand expected to spike over the weekend, experts caution that prices could climb again as summer approaches.
For those planning to rent a car, AAA — in partnership with Hertz — predicts the Friday before Memorial Day will be the busiest day for rental services. Airports are also expected to experience increased foot traffic, though not enough to surpass the record set in 2005. Still, more people are expected to fly this year than in 2024.
Travel by other modes, such as trains, buses, and cruises, is also on the rise, suggesting that Americans are eager to kick off the summer travel season with a bang.
With so many hitting the road, skies, and seas, AAA encourages all travelers to plan ahead, stay safe, and be prepared for delays.
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