AAA warns of heavier traffic, higher costs for Labor Day travelers

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Americans are expected to hit the road and take to the skies for Labor Day weekend despite higher travel costs, with AAA warning travelers to prepare for heavier traffic and potentially higher gas prices.

AAA booking data shows strong demand for Labor Day travel across the U.S., Canada and Europe. Seattle, Orlando, Boston, Denver and New York are among the top domestic destinations, while Rome, Vancouver, London, Dublin and Paris lead the international list.

But travelers are paying more for several parts of their trips this year.

Average domestic airfare is up 2% from last year, averaging about $750 for a round-trip ticket, according to AAA. For the most popular Labor Day destinations, the average airfare is nearly 20% higher, at about $790.

Domestic hotel bookings are up 9%, while international hotel bookings are 12% more expensive compared with last Labor Day weekend.

International airfare is one area where travelers could see some savings, with prices down 4% year over year.

Cruises departing from U.S. ports are also averaging about 4% less than last year, at approximately $2,700 per booking.

Heavy traffic expected

For those traveling by car, traffic could be one of the biggest challenges of the holiday weekend.

INRIX, a transportation data provider, expects the heaviest congestion Thursday and Friday as holiday travelers mix with regular commuter traffic.

The expected peak travel times are:

• Thursday, Sept. 3: 2 to 7 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 4: noon to 8 p.m.
• Saturday, Sept. 5: 1 to 5 p.m.
• Monday, Sept. 7: 2 to 5 p.m.

AAA recommends leaving early, allowing additional travel time and avoiding afternoon departures when possible.

Tiffany Wright with AAA said travelers should expect a particularly busy weekend because Labor Day is a popular time for families and friends to take one final summer trip.

“Labor Day really is one of those holidays where, you know, people, they surround themselves with family and friends, and they’re not gonna let higher prices stop them from doing that,” Wright said.

Wright said Wilmington and the surrounding coastal areas could see additional congestion as visitors head toward the area’s beaches.

“When we’re talking about Wilmington, we know we’re talking about a year round travel destination, right?” Wright said. “So Wilmington is going to be busy, especially around those roads that are headed to the beach.”

She recommends travelers avoid peak periods when possible and give themselves extra time.

“Your best bet is to leave early, or to leave late,” Wright said.

Gas prices could set a Labor Day record

Gas prices could be another expense for drivers.

AAA said the national average price of gasoline on Labor Day 2025 was $3.19 per gallon. Wright said current prices are significantly higher this year.

“We are on pace to set the record for the highest gas price for Labor Day,” Wright said.

She said the national average was around $4.14 per gallon at the time of the interview, which would be the first Labor Day holiday in which the national average exceeded $4 per gallon.

North Carolina prices have also increased in recent days, Wright said.

She attributed the higher prices in part to market volatility and factors affecting crude oil supplies and refinery demand.

More than 400,000 roadside assistance calls last Labor Day

AAA also recommends drivers prepare their vehicles before hitting the road.

During last year’s Labor Day holiday period, AAA responded to more than 400,000 roadside assistance calls involving issues such as dead batteries, flat tires, lockouts and towing.

Wright said drivers can reduce their chances of breaking down by spending a few minutes checking their vehicles before leaving.

“If your battery is three years or older, consider getting it tested before you hit the road,” Wright said. “That’s what we’re seeing the most of right now. Dead batteries, flat tires.”

AAA recommends that drivers:

• Check tire pressure and tread
• Test the battery
• Check fluid levels
• Pack water, snacks and emergency supplies
• Carry a flashlight and jumper cables

AAA’s Labor Day travel analysis is based on booking data for trips between Sept. 3 and Sept. 7, 2026, compared with the same holiday period in 2025.