Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner and marks the "unofficial" start of the summer travel season.
AAA is projecting that this year's Memorial Day weekend will be one of the busiest in the US as Americans seek to kick off the summer by getting out of town.
Over 42 million people are expected to hit the roads or take a plane for the holiday weekend. This shows a 7 percent increase from 2022, as reported by CBSNews.
The auto group also predicts air travel this weekend will surpass 2019, with almost 3.4 million passengers expected to hit the airports.
Hopper, an airfare tracking site, also cited that domestic prices for flights are a lot cheaper than in 2022 but have increased by 6 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels. On the other hand, international fares are the highest they have been in five years.
Read also: US Flights Canceled, Delayed During Labor Day Weekend as Travel Record Hits Highest in Three Years
Americans Just Want to Travel Post-Pandemic
The increase in travel during the holiday weekend reflects the pent-up demand for travel among Americans after more than a year of pandemic-related restrictions.
People are eager to reunite with family and friends, explore new destinations, and enjoy a sense of normalcy. However, the spike in travel also raises concerns about the potential for COVID-19 to spread, especially with the emergence of new variants.
However, while people may be excited about traveling again after more than a year of restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is still concern over safety and health risks associated with air travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends taking precautions such as getting vaccinated before traveling or wearing masks during flights.
Additionally, travelers should be aware of any local regulations or requirements when visiting different states or countries as they continue their journeys in order protects not only themselves but also those around them from the potential spread of coronavirus variants, which can easily lead into another wave if necessary measures are not taken seriously.
Despite these challenges though, it seems like nothing will stop Americans' desire for adventure - especially after being cooped up at home for so long!
Overall, the increase in travel during the holiday weekend reflects a mix of excitement and caution towards the ongoing pandemic. While people are eager to travel and enjoy a sense of normalcy again, health and safety concerns remain at the forefront. Travelers need to stay informed and follow guidelines to protect themselves and others as they embark on their adventures.
Are you excited to travel for memorial day weekend? Buckle up because there will surely be a lot of travelers on the road and at airports this year.
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