Memorial Day Weekend 2025 is shaping up to be the busiest on record, with more than 45 million Americans hitting the roads, skies, and seas. According to AAA, travel volume will rise by over 1.4 million compared to last year. Whether you’re planning to fly, drive, or sail, here’s what you need to know for a smoother trip.
Air Travel Surges: Top Tips and Busiest Destinations
Airports across the country will be packed, as United Airlines prepares to fly 3.8 million people—a 300,000 increase year-over-year. Popular destinations include Orlando, Las Vegas, and Boston. American Airlines is running 38,000 flights during the holiday stretch, although its single busiest day will fall in July.
United is encouraging travelers to use its app for expedited bag drops and to take advantage of TSA PreCheck Touchless ID at major airports like Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Los Angeles (LAX). For those flying from Newark (EWR), United’s flexibility waiver is extended through May 23 in case of disruptions.
Highway Havoc: Record Road Trips, Cheap Gas, and Rental Demand
Americans are taking to the highways in record numbers, with 39.4 million traveling by car—up by a million from 2024. AAA warns of a dramatic 83% surge in Los Angeles traffic on I-5 North on May 23 at 5 p.m., making it the biggest hot spot. Other busy routes include Houston’s I-45 South to Galveston and Denver’s I-25 South.
The good news? Gas prices will average just $3.02 a gallon—the lowest for a Memorial Day weekend in four years, according to GasBuddy. That’s a major relief from the 2022 peak of $4.60 per gallon. Despite economic uncertainty, experts anticipate a robust travel season as millions plan longer getaways.
Rental cars are also in high demand. Hertz has reported strong bookings in Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Seattle. The company has rolled out a new fleet of Jeep Wrangler 4xE vehicles and is celebrating with a special 10% discount for Jeep rentals over the weekend.
Cruise Season Kicks Off: Alaska Tops Domestic Sailings
Cruises are set to launch the summer travel season, with Alaska ports such as Fairbanks, Anchorage, and Juneau emerging as top picks. AAA notes strong demand for Alaska itineraries, highlighting cruising’s continued post-pandemic rebound.
Memorial Day Weekend is also a prime time to book new voyages. Royal Caribbean is offering up to $800 in instant savings for bookings on the Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, plus extra deals for second guests and children.
Final Travel Reminders
- Expect crowded airports and highways; allow extra time for check-in, security, and traffic delays.
- Download airline and rental car apps for streamlined service and updates.
- Plan your road trip routes in advance to avoid peak congestion times.
- Take advantage of low gas prices and seasonal rental car deals.
- If cruising, check port protocols and promotions for last-minute savings.
With planning and flexibility, you can make the most of Memorial Day Weekend 2025—whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or just out for a long-awaited adventure.
