Millions of Americans are traveling over the Labor Day weekend, but this year’s end-of-summer getaway is coming with a higher price tag.
AAA data shows that travelers are facing increased costs for domestic airfare, hotels and gasoline, while major highways and airports are expected to remain busy. For people heading home on Monday, September 7, planning ahead could mean the difference between a relatively smooth journey and hours of delays.
(TOC)
The latest AAA travel data shows that round-trip domestic airfare is averaging about $750, while flights to the most popular domestic destinations are averaging nearly $800—around 20% higher than last year.
Labor Day Travel Costs Are Rising
The biggest concern for road travelers is fuel.
AAA reported a national average gasoline price of about $4.14 per gallon on September 3, putting the 2026 Labor Day weekend on track to establish a record-high holiday gasoline price. The previous Labor Day record was $3.82 per gallon, set in 2012.
Higher crude oil prices and volatility in global energy markets have contributed to the increase. That means drivers making long road trips could spend considerably more on fuel than they did during last year's holiday weekend.
For comparison, AAA said regular gasoline averaged about $3.19 per gallon on Labor Day 2025.
Airfare Is Also More Expensive
Travelers flying home aren't necessarily getting a cheaper alternative.
AAA booking data shows domestic round-trip flights are about 2% more expensive than last year, with an average price of approximately $750. For the most popular domestic destinations, the average is nearly $800, representing an increase of about 20% year over year.
International travelers are seeing a somewhat different trend. AAA says international round-trip airfare is averaging about $1,240, which is roughly 4% cheaper than last year.
Seattle and Orlando Lead the List of Popular Destinations
AAA booking data places Seattle at No. 1 among domestic Labor Day destinations, followed by Orlando.
The top 10 domestic destinations are:
- Seattle, Washington
- Orlando, Florida
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Denver, Colorado
- New York, New York
- Chicago, Illinois
- Anaheim/Los Angeles, California
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Anchorage, Alaska
- Atlanta, Georgia
The list highlights continued demand for theme-park destinations, major cities, outdoor adventures and Alaska-related travel.
Expect Heavy Traffic on the Roads
Drivers should also prepare for significant congestion as travelers return home.
AAA and INRIX projections indicate that traffic will be particularly heavy during several peak periods throughout the holiday weekend. Travelers can generally reduce delays by leaving earlier in the day and avoiding the busiest afternoon and evening periods.
For Tampa-area travelers, the Tampa-to-Orlando route on I-4 is among the corridors expected to experience substantial delays during peak periods. AAA/INRIX projections showed a Friday afternoon trip could take significantly longer than normal.
Why Leaving Early Can Help
Travelers interviewed ahead of the holiday weekend said they were leaving early to avoid the worst congestion.
That strategy can make a meaningful difference, particularly for people driving long distances. Checking traffic conditions before departure, allowing extra time for fuel and rest stops, and having an alternate route available can also help reduce stress.
Hotels Are More Expensive Too
The increased cost of Labor Day travel isn't limited to gasoline and airfare.
AAA says domestic hotel bookings are about 9% more expensive than during the same holiday period last year. International hotel bookings are up about 12%.
For travelers who waited until the last minute to arrange accommodation, limited availability in popular destinations could add further pressure to the overall trip budget.
How Travelers Can Save Money
Despite higher transportation costs, travelers can still take several steps to reduce expenses.
Fill Up Strategically
Compare gas prices along your route before stopping. Avoid waiting until the fuel gauge is nearly empty, particularly in areas where prices are significantly higher.
Avoid Peak Traffic
If your schedule allows, leave early rather than traveling during the busiest afternoon periods. A slightly earlier departure can help reduce both traffic delays and driving stress.
Give Yourself Extra Airport Time
Air travelers should allow additional time for parking, security screening, baggage and potential congestion around the airport.
Check Your Vehicle Before Leaving
AAA recommends checking important vehicle components before a road trip, including tires, the battery and fluid levels. Carrying an emergency kit with basic supplies can also be useful in case of a breakdown.
The Bottom Line for Labor Day Travelers
The 2026 Labor Day weekend is proving to be an expensive one for Americans on the move.
Gasoline prices are at record territory for the holiday, domestic airfare is higher than last year and popular destinations are seeing particularly strong demand. Heavy traffic is another factor travelers need to consider as millions make their way home.
Whether you're driving from Tampa to Orlando, flying across the country or returning from a longer vacation, the safest strategy is simple: leave extra time, check conditions before you travel and budget for higher transportation costs.
With Labor Day marking the unofficial end of summer, a little preparation could make the journey home considerably easier.
