The US summer that brought record-high gas prices and travel approaching pre 9-11 levels is ending with possibly record-high Labor Day holiday travel, says AAA.
Their estimate is that 34.1 million Americans will travel 50 miles from home this weekend, a 2.2% increase from last year’s 33.4 million travelers.
About 84% of travelers will go by motor vehicle, also a 2% increase over last year. Another 3.9 million, or 11%, will travel by airplane, also up from 4% last year.
Oceans and beaches will top the list of preferred destinations with 26% of travel volume. Small towns and rural areas will be a close second, with 21%, followed by cities at 16%.
Report by David Wilkening
