Memorial Day weekend travel: When to travel and how much it will cost

As the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day weekend is a popular time for Americans to hit the road and take a much-needed vacation. Whether you’re planning a road trip, a flight to a sunny destination, or a staycation close to home, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and affordable journey.

When to travel

If you’re driving, try to avoid the busiest travel days, which are typically the Thursday and Friday before the holiday. AAA estimates that over 38 million Americans will travel by car this Memorial Day weekend, so hitting the road early or late in the day can help you beat the traffic.

For those flying, the most expensive days to travel are the Friday before Memorial Day and the Monday after. At this late stage it may be too late to make any bookings but late trips could make us of this.

How much it will cost

For road trippers, the biggest expense will be fuel. According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of gas is currently $3.60, around the same as last year. To save on gas, consider using a fuel-efficient vehicle, planning your route to avoid heavy traffic, and taking advantage of gas station loyalty programs.

Airfare prices are also on the rise, with the average domestic round-trip ticket costing $382, according to MoneyGeek. Though it may already be too late, it is important to be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying on the actual holiday or the day after.

When it comes to accommodations, hotel rates tend to be higher during holiday weekends. According to BudgetYourTrip, the average nightly rate for a mid-range hotel is $171. To save on lodging, consider staying outside of a city center, and scouring hotel and accomodation sites for last-minute-deals.