AAA has released data showing that Seattle, Orlando, and New York are the top domestic destinations for travelers over the Labor Day weekend. The data suggests that many Americans are planning one last trip before the end of summer, with a notable focus on these cities.
According to AAA, domestic travel costs have decreased compared to the previous year. Roundtrip flights within the United States are 6% cheaper, averaging $720 per ticket. Hotel rates have seen an 11% decrease, and car rental costs are down by 3%. The organization’s car rental partner, Hertz, reports that Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta are the top destinations based on advanced bookings, with the busiest day for car rentals expected to be Friday, August 29.
Gas prices have remained stable, matching the summer averages of 2021. Last year, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.33 on Labor Day. AAA anticipates that prices will remain below last year’s levels, barring any significant disruptions such as tropical storms affecting Gulf Coast refineries. The stability in gas prices is attributed to steady crude oil prices throughout 2025.
International travel costs present a mixed picture. While hotel rates for international destinations are 2% cheaper, airfare has increased by 8%. Vancouver is the most popular international destination, followed by several European cities, including Rome, Dublin, and London. The data support AAA’s earlier projections for a strong season for Alaska cruises, as outlined in the 2025 Cruise Forecast.
AAA has also provided insights into the best and worst times to travel by car over the holiday weekend, based on data from INRIX, a transportation analytics company. The best times to drive are generally before lunchtime, with congestion worsening in the afternoon and early evening. Saturday is expected to be particularly busy for road travel.
The data from AAA covers the period from Thursday, August 28 to Monday, September 1, and compares it with the same period in 2024. The findings highlight trends in travel behavior and costs, offering insights for those planning trips during this holiday weekend.
