As Americans gear up for the last holiday weekend of summer, experts are offering strategies to simplify travel planning for Labor Day weekend, which runs from August 29 to September 1. With a chance to snag last-minute deals on flights and accommodations, travelers are encouraged to take advantage of these insights from industry professionals.
The AAA recently released data showing that both domestic and international travel prices are down this year compared to 2024. Roundtrip flights within the U.S. average $720, which is a 6% decrease from the previous year. Hotel rates have also dropped by 11%, and car rental costs are down by 3%. This year’s travel data indicates that many travelers are heading to popular domestic cities, with Seattle, Orlando, and New York ranked among the top destinations.
Traffic data from INRIX provides helpful advice for those driving to their destinations. Travelers should aim to hit the road early in the day. On Saturday, August 30, for instance, the best time to travel is before 6 a.m., as traffic is predicted to be heaviest between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. On other days, travelers should try to leave early or late to avoid peak hours.
For those flying, the busiest day is anticipated to be Friday, August 29, making it ideal to consider traveling on Tuesday, September 2, instead for fewer crowds and better fares. Experts recommend shopping for flight deals, even during a busy holiday period, as good bargains may still be available.
Data collected by Expedia highlights that the average airline ticket price for Labor Day weekend is around $260. Popular booking trends indicate an increase in interest for destinations like Las Vegas, New York City, and Chicago. Furthermore, with the onset of the college football season, various cities are expected to see spikes in visitors.
Travelers aiming for family-friendly getaways should consider destinations in the Midwest or countryside locations, which are becoming increasingly popular for their affordability and appeal to families. Notably, international locations such as Nadi, Fiji, and Taormina, Sicily, are also seeing an increase in bookings this year.
To optimize booking experiences, travelers are advised to utilize price alerts on platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights to ensure they get the best deals, including potential fare refunds if prices drop after booking. Being flexible with destinations and considering alternate airports can also lead to significant savings. Finally, a new service by Avis allows travelers to skip the rental counter and save time with concierge services available at select airports.
As the travel landscape shifts toward shoulder season, September and October are projected to provide lower airfare, fewer tourists, and a significant drop in rental prices, particularly in popular tourist spots such as Hawaii.
Travelers can explore these opportunities and make the most of the upcoming Labor Day weekend.