This Memorial Day weekend is expected to be the busiest travel holiday in years, with millions of people hitting the roads and airports to commence the unofficial start of summer.AAA projects that roughly 45 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over Memorial Day weekend, surpassing last year’s numbers and setting a new high for holiday travel demand.Driving remains the most popular option for holiday travelers, accounting for nearly 87% of all Memorial Day trips. AAA estimates about 39.1 million people will travel by car this weekend, slightly above the 39 million drivers recorded last year.
With so many vehicles expected on highways nationwide, AAA is urging travelers to prepare their cars before leaving home by checking batteries, tire pressure, and fluid levels. During last year’s Memorial Day weekend, AAA responded to more than 350,000 roadside assistance calls involving dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks.
Rental car demand is also expected to spike, with Thursday and Friday projected to be the busiest pickup days. Orlando, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Denver, and Boston are expected to see the highest rental demand in the country.
Heavy traffic expected in major metro areas
