Despite worries about inflation and challenges in the travel industry, over 45 million Americans are expected to travel this Memorial Day Weekend. That’s 1.4 million more travelers than last year, making it the busiest Memorial Day travel season in 20 years.
Several reasons explain why more people are hitting the road or skies despite economic concerns:
Strong consumer confidence makes people choose travel experiences over saving money.
Gas prices are lower than last year, so road trips are cheaper.
Hotel costs are moderate, and many want to spend quality time with family after the pandemic.
Around 87% of travelers plan to drive, with nearly 39 million people taking road trips. Driving is seen as more convenient and affordable than flying for many.
Popular places this Memorial Day include Orlando (thanks to Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park), New York City, Seattle, Miami, Las Vegas, and San Francisco.
About 3.6 million people will fly this holiday, despite a small rise in average ticket prices to roughly $850, about 2% higher than last year.