Driving this weekend? Here is what Memorial Day travelers can expect at the gas pump

Americans were expected to travel in record numbers this long Memorial Day weekend.

Auto club organization AAA predicted that over 45 million people — 1.4 million more than last year — would venture at least 50 miles from their homes between Thursday and Monday, with the vast majority going by car. The holiday’s previous domestic travel record of 44 million was set 20 years ago.

Like last year, about 87% of travelers will drive to their Memorial Day destinations, AAA said. About 39 million people were expected to take road trips, which are cheaper than flying.

AAA’s fuel tracker showed motorists could expect to pay less for gasoline this year; the U.S. average price on Friday was about $3.20 for a gallon of regular gas compared to $3.61 a year ago. Renting a vehicle and staying in a hotel also may cost less, according to the most recent Consumer Price Index.

Oregon’s average price for regular gas is right about $4 a gallon currently compared to $4.3 a gallon a year ago. In Washington, the average price is $4.4 per gallon, just below last year at $4.5.

The roads are always busiest in the afternoons and evenings. Transportation data firm INRIX said people planning to return home on Memorial Day itself should try to leave before the busiest hours of 4 p.m.-7 p.m. local time.

The analysts who prepared the forecast weren’t sure when they started their research if concerns about the economy would cause fewer U.S. residents to plan getaways for the unofficial start of summer, but it doesn’t seem to be the case, AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said.

“People are still feeling pretty good about travel,” Diaz said, adding that some households and individuals may just opt to spend less money on their trips.

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