ST. LOUIS – AAA anticipates a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend, with millions expected to travel for the holiday.
In this year’s travel forecast, 45.1 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Thursday and Monday, an increase of 1.4 million travelers compared to last year, surpassing the previous record set in 2005 when 44 million people traveled during the holiday period.
AAA reports that most of the travel will be by car, with nearly 39.5 million people taking road trips. Gas prices are lower this Memorial Day weekend, providing some relief to travelers. AAA notes that gas prices haven’t been this low during Memorial Day since 2021, despite general concerns about prices overall.
The national average for gas is $3.19 per gallon, down 42 cents from last year. In Missouri, the average price is $2.87 per gallon, a decrease of 34 cents compared to last year. Illinois drivers will pay $3.44 per gallon, which is 57 cents less than last year.
With millions hitting the road and gas prices at a relative low, this Memorial Day weekend is set to be one of the busiest travel periods in recent years.
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