ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Though its status as the end of summer is not technically accurate, Labor Day marks the unofficial end to the season of fun in the sun for millions of people across the United States and Canada. That makes the weekend preceding Labor Day one of the most popular times to travel.

Although AAA does not conduct a full travel forecast for the holiday, it does have a series of trends and tips for travelers.

“Americans see the extended Labor Day weekend as an opportunity to say farewell to summer with one final trip,” Debbie Haas, vice president of travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in a news release. “Since many kids are already back in school, regional road trips tend to be the most popular option for families. Because of that, others see this as an opportunity to travel the world, with the expectation of smaller crowds at popular sites.”

Best and worst times to travel by car

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

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

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE AAA’S LIST OF BEST AND WORST TRAVEL TIMES

Gas prices

Travelers taking road trips should expect to pay less for gas compared to last year. The national average over Labor Day weekend in 2023 was $3.81, according to AAA. In recent weeks, gas prices have remained steady, hovering around $3.50. According to AAA, the national average on Thursday was $3.36 a gallon and the average in North Carolina was $3.15.

The group’s website put the average cost of gas in Buncombe County at $3.15 a gallon and at $3.097 in Henderson County.

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 AAA website said.

“The best way to avoid spending your holiday on the roadside is by getting a full vehicle inspection before your trip,” Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in a news release. “This will help ensure everything from your battery to brakes is in proper working order.”

Below are some tips from the AAA website:

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.

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.