BOISE, ID — AAA is projecting a record-breaking 45.1 million Americans, including 274,000 Idahoans, will travel for Memorial Day weekend this year. The forecast marks the highest Memorial Day travel volume on record, with an additional 1.4 million travelers compared to last year.

“With more people on the roads and at airports, travelers should plan ahead and consider early departures to avoid delays,” said Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho Public & Government Affairs Director. “Despite ongoing concerns about rising prices, many are prioritizing travel to reconnect with family and friends, though some may opt for closer destinations.”

AAA recommends motorists avoid traveling during peak congestion periods, especially Thursday and Friday afternoons before the holiday and between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. on Memorial Day. The best travel windows are before noon on Thursday, May 22, and before 2:00 p.m. on Memorial Day.

According to AAA, about 87% of travelers will drive to their destinations, totaling a record 39.4 million road trippers nationwide—1 million more than last year. Air travel is expected to rise 2%, while travel by cruises, buses, and trains is projected to jump 8.5% from 2024.

Popular Destinations

Top destinations for Idaho travelers include Las Vegas, Seattle, Los Angeles, the Oregon Coast, Orlando, San Diego, Salt Lake City, Reno, Phoenix, and Nashville.

Internationally, travelers are favoring Cabo San Lucas, London, Dublin, Vancouver, Tokyo, Rome, Athens, Edinburgh, San Jose (Costa Rica), and Amsterdam.

Costs and Roadside Assistance

AAA reports most travel costs are up this year. Domestic flights are 2% more expensive, hotel stays have increased 8%, and cruises are about 2% higher than last year. However, rental car prices have decreased by 8%.

AAA anticipates providing emergency roadside assistance to 360,000 vehicles nationwide over the weekend, including 700 incidents in Idaho. The agency advises travelers to conduct vehicle inspections, focusing on the battery, engine, and tires.

AAA Travel Tips

• Use the AAA mobile app to find the cheapest gas and EV charging stations.

• Reduce speed by 5 to 10 MPH to improve fuel economy by up to 14%.

• Pack snacks for the road or flight.

• Evaluate lodging tradeoffs—hotels near major attractions may cost more.

• Reserve rental cars early for best selection.

AAA Idaho is part of AAA Oregon/Idaho, which serves 900,000 members with travel, insurance, financial, and automotive services. AAA serves more than 63 million members across North America.