Labor Day weekend is practically here, and whether you’re staying at home to get some much-needed rest or traveling across state lines, the streets will be filled with bumper-to-bumper traffic. Knowing the exact times when traffic will peak is a vital part of preparing your vacation weekend, however don’t stress– we’ve collected the very best and worst times to travel over Labor Day weekend, so you do not have to. Follow our advice and save yourself from the gridlock this weekend.
When Is Labor Day?
This year, Labor Day 2024 will take place on Monday, September 2. The federal holiday was designed to commemorate workers across the country and their contributions to the American economy, and as a result, a lot of working individuals are granted a three-day weekend. The vacation is hugely popular, with many people getting on the road and treating their weekend as a mini-vacation– however the journey can be grueling.
The Very Best and Worst Times to Travel During Labor Day Weekend
If you’re taking a trip by air, avoid scheduling flights for Friday, August 30, specifically during the midmorning and midafternoon (the busiest time for air travel). The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prepares for August 30th will be its busiest day, with an estimated 2.86 million travelers anticipated to fly. Furthermore, several airlines– consisting of United Airlines and American Airlines– are anticipating to host a record-breaking variety of travelers this year.
For roadway travelers, the worst time to drive on Thursday, August 29 is in between 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., with rush hour traffic at its peak throughout the midafternoon. On Friday, August 30, the worst time to strike the road is in between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. On Monday, September 2, the roadways will be loaded from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
How to Beat the Crowd Ahead of Labor Day
If you’re taking a trip, it’s likely you’ll be postponed by big crowds at some point this Labor Day weekend, however by knowing what to anticipate and preparing ahead, you can be much better prepared. Leaving an hour or two early can assist you avoid peak congestion, specifically on Labor Day.
Furthermore, now is the time to enhance your TSA pre-check and E-ZPass to speed through as rapidly as possible. The faster you make it through routine procedures, the quicker you’ll get to your location. Do not forget to drive safely, hydrate typically, and practice the virtue of patience.
