As Labor Day weekend approaches, many travelers are preparing for one last summer vacation.

This year, Labor Day is observed on Monday, September 2, signaling the conclusion of a record-setting travel season. According to AAA, domestic travel during this final long weekend of summer is projected to increase by 9% compared to last year.

Those traveling by car should anticipate significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. On a positive note, they will benefit from lower fuel prices, with the national average approximately $0.20 less than it was during the holiday weekend last year.

In contrast, international travel has decreased by 4% from 2023, likely attributed to rising expenses. Booking data from AAA indicates that costs for international trips over Labor Day weekend 2024 have risen by 11% compared to the previous year.

Here\’s what travelers can expect for Labor Day weekend 2024:

Top Domestic Destinations for Labor Day Weekend 2024

This year, there is a notable increase in U.S. travelers heading to Seattle, with bookings rising nearly 30% from last year according to AAA\’s data. Many are also planning trips to Alaska, with Anchorage and Juneau ranking among the most sought-after end-of-summer destinations.

\”This time of year is ideal for Alaska cruises,\” commented Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a press release. \”Crowds are smaller than earlier in the summer months and there\’s a chance you might see early fall foliage! It\’s no wonder that Alaska cruises are fully booked this Labor Day weekend.\”

Popular International Destinations for Labor Day Weekend 2024

Vancouver stands out as the leading international destination just north of the Canadian border according to AAA. Following closely are favored European cities such as Rome, London, Paris, Dublin, and Amsterdam.

Peak Traffic Times for Labor Day Weekend 2024

High congestion levels are expected on Thursday afternoon (August 29) and Friday afternoon (August 30), along with early evening and morning traffic on Saturday (August 31). As travelers return home after the long weekend, Sunday afternoon (September 1) from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., along with Monday morning (September 2) and Tuesday morning (September 3), will see some of the worst traffic conditions.

\”Drivers should be prepared for significant delays ahead of the holiday weekend due to an overlap between commuters and vacationers,\” stated Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. \”Using traffic applications and local news updates or services like 511 can assist drivers in avoiding congested areas and minimizing frustration this Labor Day.\”

Optimal Driving Times for Labor Day Weekend 2024

To steer clear of heavy traffic jams, consider departing during night time or early morning hours. The most favorable times to drive over Labor Day include before 11 a.m. on Thursday (August 29), before noon or after 7 p.m. on Friday (August 30), and post-noon on Saturday (August 31).

For those returning home, ideal departure times are before noon on Sunday (September 1), before 10 a.m. on Monday (September 2), or after1 p.m. on Tuesday (September 3).