Anyone who's had to fill up their tanks in the last month knows how brutal gas prices have become. At the pump right now, drivers are paying an average of $4.50 per gallon—a staggering $1.33 more than the $3.17 average from last Memorial Day. Despite this enormous increase in transportation costs, it appears Americans still plan to travel in record numbers this upcoming Memorial Day weekend.
A new AAA study forecasts that upwards of 45 million Americans will still be traveling—via car or plane—at least 50 miles from home for the long weekend. An anticipated 39.1 million folks are expected to drive to their destination, with another 3.66 million by air. Surprisingly, this figure is slightly larger than last year.
According to Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel, "Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and for most Americans, it's a three-day weekend. Travel demand remains strong, and despite higher fuel prices, many people are prioritizing leisure travel during holiday breaks."
Related: 6 Underrated Beach Towns Near Boston That Are Perfect for a Last-Minute Memorial Day Trip and Promise Delicous Seafood, Stunning Views and Few Crowds
Part of that may be attributed to forward-planning travelers who booked their flights months ago, when average plane tickets were actually lower than they were the previous year. With airfares averaging around $800 for round-trip domestic flights right now, those who secured bookings before rising jet fuel costs took effect got the better deal. For those driving, however, there's no escaping the exorbitant gas prices. If you’re planning on renting a car, however, there’s a tiny silver lining: car rental prices are 1% lower this holiday weekend than they were a year ago.
The AAA report also predicted the top Memorial Day destinations, both domestically and internationally, for 2026.
Orlando, FLSeattle, WANew York, NYLas Vegas, NVMiami, FLSan Francisco, CAAnchorage, AKChicago, ILDenver, COBoston, MA
Related: This Under‑the‑Radar Southern City Was Just Named a Top Travel Destination for Its Horse Farms, Bourbon Tours, and Rising Food Scene
Top 10 International Destinations for Memorial Day
Rome, ItalyVancouver, CanadaParis, FranceLondon, EnglandAthens, GreeceDublin, IrelandBarcelona, SpainSouthampton, EnglandAmsterdam, NetherlandsEdinburgh, ScotlandFor drivers heading out this weekend, AAA recommends checking your vehicle's battery, tire pressure, and fluid levels before the trip. Remember: Thursday and Friday afternoons between 3 and 6 p.m. will see the heaviest congestion, while Sunday should offer lighter traffic. Leave early, drive sober, and consider hitting the road after 9 p.m. Thursday or before 11 a.m. Friday to avoid the worst delays.
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