Whether it’s an Alaska cruise, Central Florida theme park, or Broadway show, many Americans are squeezing in one final trip before summer ends. According to AAA booking data, Seattle, Orlando, and New York are the three most popular cities over Labor Day weekend. The good news for domestic travelers is that flights, hotels, and car rentals are cheaper this Labor Day weekend compared to last year.
“Labor Day marks the end of summer travel and offers one last opportunity for a holiday getaway before the fall season begins,” said Auto Club of Southern California Corporate Communications Manager Doug Shupe. “Seattle and Vancouver top the list for domestic and international destinations, thanks to their popularity as departure ports for Alaska cruises. While some travelers are embarking on bucket-list cruises or European adventures, many are choosing to stay closer to home, opting for road trips to nearby beaches and national parks.”
Travel Costs
Domestic roundtrip flights are 6% cheaper compared to last year, averaging $720 a ticket. AAA booking data also shows hotel rates are 11% lower and car rental costs are 3% cheaper compared to last Labor Day. AAA car rental partner Hertz says the top destinations based on advanced bookings are Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, with the busiest day to pick up rental cars expected to be Friday, August 29.
Summer gas prices have remained low, matching summer averages in 2021. Last year, the national average for a gallon of regular was $3.33 on Labor Day. Barring a tropical storm or hurricane affecting Gulf Coast refineries, gas prices should stay below what they were last year. So far in 2025, gas prices have seen few fluctuations thanks to steady crude oil prices.
The cost to travel internationally this Labor Day weekend is a mixed bag – while hotels are 2% cheaper, airfare is 8% more expensive. European cities make up most of AAA’s top international destinations, but the number one spot belongs to Vancouver. Alaska cruises are wrapping up a strong season.
AAA’s Top Labor Day Weekend Destinations
Domestic: Seattle • Orlando • New York • Boston • Anchorage • Chicago • Atlanta • Denver • Miami • Las Vegas
International: Vancouver • Rome • Dublin • London • Paris • Amsterdam • Barcelona • Athens • Edinburgh • Lisbon
Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car over Labor Day Weekend
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says the best times to drive over Labor Day weekend are before lunchtime, and for those hitting the road on Saturday, the earlier, the better! Traffic congestion worsens as the day progresses. The worst times to drive over the holiday weekend are typically in the afternoon and early evening. Saturday is expected to be extra busy with many drivers heading out of town or taking day trips.
In Southern California, peak congestion will be Los Angeles to Palm Springs via I-10 E on Thursday, Aug 28 when traffic will be 71% higher compared to normal times and San Diego to Palm Springs via I-15 N on Friday, Aug 29 with a 57% increase in travel time.
AAA Road Trip Safety Reminders
- Prep Your Vehicle – Check tires, fluids, brakes, and battery before hitting the road.
- Pack an Emergency Kit – Include water, snacks, flashlight, first-aid supplies, and phone charger.
- Avoid Drowsy Driving – Get plenty of rest and take breaks every two hours.
- Plan Your Route – Use GPS and carry a physical map; share your itinerary with someone.
- Always remain alert – Avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.
- Beat the Heat – Never leave kids or pets in parked cars and keep your windshield clean to reduce glare.
- Slow Down or Move Over – When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle, tow truck, service vehicle or automobile experiencing a breakdown, slow down to a safe speed or move over to an adjacent lane, if it is safe to do so.
For more travel tips and resources, visit AAA.com.