Record 45M Americans to travel Memorial Day weekend. How to avoid traffic
USA Today
Last updated: May 12, 2026
AAA forecasts that 45 million Americans will travel for Memorial Day weekend, despite rising costs for gas and airfare. This number represents a significant increase from the previous year and is expected to be the second-highest travel volume since 2000.
- Americans are embracing travel this Memorial Day weekend, with AAA projecting 45 million people will journey 50 miles or more away from home. This figure marks a 3.4% increase compared to last year and is the second-highest volume for this holiday since 2000.
- Driving is the dominant mode of transportation, with 39.2 million Americans expected to travel by car. Air travel is also seeing a surge, with 3.7 million people opting to fly, representing a 9% increase from last year.
- Other forms of transportation, including cruises, trains, and buses, will carry 2.1 million travelers, up 2.5% from 2023.
- The average price for a gallon of gas is projected to be around $3.59, slightly lower than last year's $3.60. Airfare prices are also expected to remain relatively stable, with the average cost for a domestic flight being $436, an 8% increase from last year, while international airfare averages $1,030, a 3% decrease from last year.
- Hotels are seeing an increase in bookings, with mid-range hotels averaging $225 per night, up 5% from last year, and economy hotels averaging $170, up 3% from last year. Rental cars are also expected to be in high demand, with the average daily rate being $77, a 6% increase from 2023.
