MN: Labor Day Travel Trends & Tips

MINNEAPOLIS (Aug. 29, 2024) – This year’s record-breaking, blockbuster summer travel season comes to a close during the Labor Day holiday weekend. While AAA does not conduct a full travel forecast for the holiday, it does have a series of trends and tips for travelers.

“Minnesotans see the extended Labor Day weekend as an opportunity to say farewell to summer with one final trip,” said Brynna Knapp, spokesperson for AAA. Most students head back to school the day after Labor Day in Minnesota and, according to a recent study, 33% of Minnesotans are planning to take a road trip. 

Popular Labor Day travel destinations in Minnesota include the lake, a resort-style vacation, a beach trip, or a major metro area destination—like the Minnesota State Fair for family fun or shopping at Mall of America.

“Wherever you’re headed, plan ahead to make the most of your trip by picking the best time to travel throughout the weekend," Knapp said. 

Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says car travelers should avoid the afternoon and early evening hours of Thursday and Friday, as those times will be the most congested. Drivers should hit the road in the morning unless they’re leaving on Saturday when the best time to travel by car is in the afternoon. Travelers returning on Sunday and on Labor Day should leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic in the afternoon.  

“Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day.”

Gas Prices 
Travelers taking road trips should expect to pay less for gas compared to last year. The average over Labor Day weekend in 2023 in Minnesota was $3.66. In recent weeks, gas prices have fallen slightly - hovering around $3.20 in Minnesota. 

Despite the popularity of summer road trips, overall gas demand is down as daily driving habits have changed post-pandemic, tempering price spikes. For drivers taking road trips in their electric vehicles, AAA now offers information on the cost of Level 2 commercial EV charging and updates that data weekly. 

AAA Expects to Rescue 300,000 Stranded Motorists
Nationwide, AAA expects to rescue more than 300,000 stranded motorists during the Labor Day holiday weekend. The three most common reasons are flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts. These could be avoided by having your car inspected before leaving for your destination and bringing an extra set of keys.

“The best way to avoid spending your holiday on the roadside is by getting a full vehicle inspection before your trip,” Knapp said. “This will help ensure everything from your battery to brakes is in proper working order.”

In the event of car trouble: 

• Pull as far over on the shoulder as safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and passing traffic.
• Turn your hazard lights on so other drivers are aware you are there.
• Get to the nearest exit or stopping point if possible.
• Call for assistance via phone, website or the AAA Mobile app.
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.
• If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain alert and close to your vehicle. Avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.

Move Over for Roadside Workers and Stranded Motorists
Minnesota law requires drivers to slow down and move over for first responders, emergency workers and stranded motorists with their hazard lights on.

“AAA’s roadside technicians will put their lives on the line to rescue hundreds of thousands of drivers during Labor Day weekend,” Knapp said. “We urge drivers to stay focused on the road and if you see flashing lights, move over so everyone can make it home safely.”

How Drivers can Prevent Roadside Collisions:

• Remain alert. Avoid distractions and focus on driving.
• Constantly scan the road ahead. This will help you identify and avoid potential hazards.
• Move over a lane when approaching a vehicle on the roadside with flashing lights. If you can’t move over, slow down to safely pass them.
• Watch for people on the roadside. People may be in or near a disabled vehicle. Just because you don’t immediately see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there.
• Be a good passenger - Help identify roadway issues and remind the driver to slow down and move over.