Springfield, Il. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – As millions prepare to hit the road for Labor Day weekend, AAA said travelers can expect lighter financial burdens this year with decreases in airfare, hotel and rental car prices.
But, with those savings comes a familiar reminder that the roads will be busy.
“Labor Day travel is looking good because everything is less expensive with regard to airfare, hotel and rental cars,” said Molly Hart, spokeswoman for AAA. “That’s an incentive for people to get away for the weekend.”
AAA noted that gas prices are also down in Illinois.
“The good news for people traveling by car is that gas is less expensive than it was a year ago,” Hart explained. “In Illinois, we’re 18 cents less than a year ago, and right here in Decatur, we’re 21 cents less. So that’s good news, too.”
Summer travel overall has been strong, according to AAA, with families eager to get away between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. Hart says this weekend, some trips may be shorter since many students are already back in school.
AAA is also reminding drivers to prepare before leaving home.
“Before you leave, check out that emergency kit and replenish anything that’s needed,” Hart advised. “You want to have your jumper cables, your cellphone charger, water, and some snacks. If you get into a situation where you need to pull over, pull over as far as you can, put your hazard lights on, and remain in the car if it’s safe to do so.”
