The Memorial Day holiday travel period is set to begin, with an anticipated 2.9 million Southern California residents preparing to hit the road this weekend. This surge in travel is projected to mark the start of the summer travel season, with the Automobile Club of Southern California forecasting a record-breaking number of travelers compared to previous years.
According to the Automobile Club, this year’s travel trend reflects a growing prioritization of travel among consumers seeking to reconnect with family and friends post-pandemic. While travelers can expect some cost savings in areas like gas prices, car rentals, and international flights, expenditures on domestic flights, hotels, cruises, and tours are likely to rise in comparison to the previous year.
Of the expected 3.6 million travelers from Southern California, the majority, around 2.9 million, are anticipated to opt for road travel. To ease congestion, travelers are advised to plan their journeys strategically, with suggested optimal travel times ranging from early morning to early afternoon on various days throughout the holiday weekend.
For those taking to the skies, approximately 382,000 travelers are expected to fly to their destinations, while another 260,000 individuals are projected to utilize alternative modes of transportation such as buses, trains, or cruises.
Transportation data firm INRIX has identified Thursday and Friday afternoons and evenings as the busiest periods for travel, with a significant increase in travel time expected along the northbound Golden State Freeway between Los Angeles and Bakersfield on Friday. The firm also highlighted popular local destinations for Southern Californians, including Las Vegas, San Diego, the Central Coast, and national parks like the Grand Canyon.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is gearing up for the influx of travelers, with an estimated 18 million passengers and crew set to be screened during the holiday period. TSA Acting Administrator Ha McNeill emphasized the importance of travelers having valid identification, such as the REAL ID, to facilitate a smooth screening process.
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, remain patient, and adhere to safety protocols to ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. Whether hitting the road or taking to the skies, the holiday weekend promises to be a busy yet rewarding time for Southern California residents venturing out for some well-deserved relaxation and adventure.
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