2024 Memorial Day Travel Forecast

SOURCE www.npr.org
A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday, with airports and roadways jam-packed due to lost travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Severe storms are forecast for the Plains, Midwest, and mid-South, potentially affecting travel plans.

Key Points

  • 43.8 million people expected to travel 50 miles or more from home
  • 38.4 million projected to drive, the highest number since AAA began tracking in 2000
  • 3.5 million people expected to fly
  • Influx of nearly 3 million passengers on Friday alone
  • Travelers advised to plan ahead, arrive early, and pack emergency kits

Pros

  • Record number of Americans traveling, indicating a return to pre-pandemic travel levels
  • Opportunity for people to experience summer travel and prioritize post-pandemic travel

Cons

  • Severe weather forecast for Plains, Midwest, and mid-South regions, including thunderstorms, wildfires, and snow
  • Threats of tornadoes, damaging wind, and hail pose risks to travelers