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SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Memorial Day Travel
Millions of Americans will travel this Memorial Day weekend by plane or car. The timing of your travel plans could make all the difference in avoiding the crowds.
How many travelers are we talking?
AAA estimates 3.4 million passengers will fly over the next few days, up 11% from last year. However, travel app Hopper projects even higher numbers, with 17 million passengers expected to fly out of airports around the country between now and Monday.
Travel experts predict that this Memorial Day weekend could be the busiest at airports since 2005. Alternatively, 42.3 million Americans will hit the road and travel by car, a 7% increase from 2022.
Traveler reunites with luggage at SJC after seeing it on ABC7
Experts attribute the increase in travel to lower gas prices, more destinations open to tourists, and competitive pricing compared to last year. AAA found that more people are opting for other modes of transportation, like buses and trains, which will total 1.85 million, an increase of 20.6% over 2022.
When are the best times to leave?
By car:
Avoid traveling between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Thursday, and leave before 1 p.m. Instead, leave before noon on Friday. Saturday and Sunday are expected to have minimal traffic impacts. On your return, avoid traveling between noon and 3 p.m. and start your day early and travel before 10 a.m. For those on an extended holiday, Tuesday before 2 p.m. or after 6 p.m. would be best.
By plane:
Thursday and Friday are the busiest days for flights. Monday is expected to have the most return traffic. The FAA projects that Saturday and Sunday will have the least flights. Most airports will be busiest in the mornings or early evenings. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says the FAA is still working to hire more air traffic controllers to keep up with demand. Airlines are now being held accountable for staffing shortages and failing to prepare for inclement weather events.
It is essential to factor in these predictions and plan your travel accordingly to avoid a stress-free vacation.
