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AAA Survey Indicates Travel Will Be Popular Beyond Labor Day

Research shows some people saved money this summer and many plan trips this fall

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Labor Day marks the end of summer road trips and vacations, however, a new AAA survey shows many people will continue to travel during the autumn months. The online survey, which was conducted across the United States in early August, showed gas prices and inflation did have an impact on some travelers’ plans this summer. According to the survey, 66% said they traveled less this summer than they typically would, and 80% said they made cutbacks to save money, with those between the ages of 18 to 34-years-old cutting back the most.

The top areas where consumers saved included:

  • Non-grocery shopping (clothing, electronics, etc.) – 49%
  • Driving – 44%
  • Going to movies – 36%
  • Flying – 29%
  • Other recreational activities (sporting events, concerts, theater, etc.) – 29%

According to the AAA late summer survey, about 32% of Americans will travel for Labor Day weekend. Of those who plan to travel, the vast majority (82%) will go by automobile.

AAA to Rescue more than 500,000 Drivers this Labor Day

AAA around anticipates coming to the roadside rescue of more than 500,000 stranded drivers from Thursday, September 1 through Monday, September 5. To avoid a breakdown on a road trip, AAA recommends drivers inspect tires, batteries, belts, hoses and fluid levels, or have vehicles inspected by a trusted mechanic, like the ones at a AAA-Approved Auto Repair facility. For those planning road trips, AAA reminds drivers to make traffic safety a priority. Drivers are urged to get at least 7 hours of sleep before a long journey, make sure everyone is buckled up, obey speed limits, and “Don’t Drive Intoxciated. Don’t Drive Intexticated.”

Travelers planning to enjoy cooler weather and fall leaves

The recent AAA survey found that most respondents are planning trips this autumn. According to those polled, this fall:

  • 73% plan to take a leisure trip after Labor Day
  • 52% will take a road trip
  • 30% will fly somewhere
  • 7% will take a cruise

According to the survey, the most popular international cruises this fall will be voyages to destinations in the Caribbean, Canada, Europe, and Mexico.

AAA Offers Tips for Drivers

For those who are driving somewhere for the long Labor Day weekend or this fall, AAA recommends travelers:

Inspect your vehicle. Check your tire pressure while the tires are cold using the recommended pressure listed on the inside of the vehicle’s driver door. Make sure all belts and hoses are not worn or cracked, and that fluids are at adequate levels. If you are towing a camper or trailer make sure to have them inspected as well.

Getting enough sleep. Be sure to get enough sleep the night before a vacation. Stop every 2 hours or 100 miles, get out of the vehicle and walk around and stretch. Do not try to drive straight through on long trips. Take breaks to eat and see local sights.

Put down your phone. Lives depend on it: To combat this dangerous trend, AAA launched a new, multi-year traffic safety education campaign - "Don’t Drive Intoxicated – Don’t Drive Intexticated."  It is designed to help audiences understand the consequences of using a smartphone while driving are the same as drinking and driving – both can result in crashes, injuries and deaths.  The campaign targets drivers who would never consider drinking a beer behind the wheel, and yet, regularly engage with mobile devices that dangerously take their eyes, hands and minds off the road.

 Not drinking and driving. It’s never safe to drink and drive, and extra holiday travel traffic congestion adds more opportunities for tragedy. Use a designated driver, make arrangements to stay overnight, or arrange a safe ride home if you plan to drink..

About AAA:

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 63 million members across North America, including over 56 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.

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AAA Northern New England is a member club affiliated with the American Automobile Association (AAA) national federation and serves members in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.