Mississippians planning to travel this Labor Day should expect higher costs and heavier traffic.
AAA released its Labor Day travel projections for 2026, showing that nearly every category has raised prices compared to this time last year. Despite the high traffic and travel costs AAA predicts, it still expects millions of Americans to take trips over the holiday weekend.
“Labor Day has long been a popular time for a final summer getaway, and travelers continue to prioritize vacations with family and friends,” AAA Director of Public Affairs Nick Jarmusz said. “Whether it’s a cruise, a national park adventure, or an international trip, travelers are eager to make the most of the holiday weekend.”
Gas prices remain elevated, with no sign of a significant decline in the near future. The national average is more than 90 cents higher than it was this time last year, while Mississippi’s Sept. 3 average of $3.72 per gallon for regular gasoline is up a full dollar from $2.72 during Labor Day weekend in 2025.
On the traffic side, AAA predicts Thursday and Friday will have the heaviest congestion, since travelers will be sharing the roads with regular work commuters. Noon to 8 p.m. are expected to be the worst times to travel by car on those days.
“Unlike longer holiday periods, Labor Day travel is often concentrated into a shorter window, resulting in significant congestion as holiday travelers mix with normal commuter traffic,” AAA said in its projections. “AAA encourages motorists to depart early, allow extra travel time, and avoid afternoon departures whenever possible.”
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According to AAA booking data, domestic airfares are up 2% this Labor Day weekend when compared to last year, with an average of $750 for a round-trip ticket. For travelers choosing the predicted most popular locations, like Seattle, Orlando, and Boston, domestic prices are up nearly 20%, averaging $790.
Americans are paying more not only to travel to their destinations but to stay there as well. Domestic hotel bookings are up 9% compared to last year, while international hotels are 12% higher.
On the bright side, for any travelers heading across the pond for Labor Day, international airfare costs are down 4%. Staying on the low side, AAA shows cruises are also down 4% from last year, with an average booking at $2,700.
AAA encourages people to stay safe and watch costs and traffic conditions this Labor Day weekend, especially since 400,000 American drivers needed roadside assistance during the holiday weekend in 2025.