BOISE – With another busy holiday expected to arrive, AAA is helping Idaho residents prepare for Labor Day weekend.
“Domestic travel on Labor Day may be up as much as 9% compared to last year,” says Matthew Conde, public affairs director for AAA Idaho. “Some families may travel a shorter distance from home due to time constraints, but we believe airports and roadways will be crowded as people say goodbye to this year’s warm weather.”
The Labor Day travel period is Thursday, August 29, through Monday, September 2. The best times to depart are Thursday and Friday mornings and to return on Monday morning. Thursday and Friday afternoons will see congestion as travelers navigate the evening rush hour, and Labor Day (Monday) may see major traffic jams in some locations as families head home.
“Some older travelers and those with flexible schedules may be able to wait for a less crowded post-holiday adventure, but most of us need to prepare for a little chaos,” Conde said. “Country roads could get hectic, as there will be droves of trailers and RVs. And plan to get to the airport earlier than usual as a precaution.”
Labor Day – average cost comparison
- Domestic flights are about 2% cheaper than last year. International flights are 8% cheaper.
- Domestic hotel stays are around 7 percent more expensive than a year ago.
- On average, rental cars domestically are 16% cheaper than a year ago, while rental prices abroad are about 21% higher than a year ago.
- Cruises from US cities are 5% more expensive than in the same period last year.
“This time of year is also when state and national parks take center stage, with beautiful scenery and pleasant temperatures,” Conde said. “Labor Day is synonymous with getting out into nature for one last camping trip, hike or day at the lake.”
Based on AAA booking data, international travel is expected to decline about 4% from a year ago.
Gasoline prices help travelers
Today, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the Gem State is $3.59, two cents less than a week ago and a penny less than a month ago, but 53 cents less than a year ago. The national average is currently $3.41 per gallon, three cents less than a week ago, nine cents less than a month ago, and 46 cents less than a year ago.
Idaho is currently ranked 10thth in the country for the most expensive fuel after Hawaii ($4.66), California ($4.60), Washington ($4.21), Nevada ($3.95), Oregon ($3.85), Illinois ($3.79), Alaska ($3.74), District of Columbia ($3.67) and Utah ($3.60).
“With few exceptions, Idaho’s pump prices have been steadily declining since April, which is not surprising given the record number of motorists who used gas on Memorial Day and April 4.”th “Some people are still working and meeting remotely even after the pandemic, so daily commutes and some business travel may have changed. But people still view leisure travel and family reunions as investments in their quality of life.”
The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently around $75 a barrel.
That’s $5 less than a month ago and $6 less than a year ago. Crude oil prices have fluctuated by a few dollars per barrel in recent days.
AAA to the rescue
AAA will respond to up to 307,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide over Labor Day weekend, including 600 here in Idaho. While more than a third of service calls involve towing a vehicle, many problems like dead batteries, lockouts or flat tires can be prevented.
“Pre-trip vehicle inspection is a best practice to ensure your weekend adventure starts well,” said Conde. “A trusted mechanic can help you diagnose and fix a problem before you hit the road.”
For more information about the destinations you are visiting, please use the AAA Travel Canvas Planning tool, AAAs digital TourBooksor the AAA mobile app.
