May 23, 2025 By Mike Jones 3 min read

A record number of Americans are expected to travel this Memorial Day weekend, including 1.2 million Pennsylvanians.

The American Automobile Association is predicting that more than 45 million people will travel farther than 50 miles from home from Thursday through Monday for the long holiday weekend.

That number would top the record 44 million people who traveled in 2005, along with the estimated 43.8 million who went on a trip for last year’s Memorial Day weekend.

“Anyone going anywhere should give themselves extra time, no matter where they’re going or how they’re traveling,” said Jim Garrity, who is AAA East Central’s director of public affairs. “Think about last Memorial Day and add more people. It’s very exciting to see we have a record amount of people (traveling).”

Lower gasoline prices this year will help, since the vast majority of people are traveling by car. The average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Western Pennsylvania is just under $3.50 per gallon, which is 31 cents less than this time last year.

“It’s a nice perk or bonus for those who are taking road trips,” Garritty said.

But the cost of fuel isn’t necessarily a deterrent, Garritty said, because summer travel was still booming in 2022 when gasoline prices hovered around $5 per gallon.

“People will find ways in their budget to take that road trip or get on the airplane to see their family and friends,” Garritty said.

And with more people on the road, AAA in this region is partnering with Pennsylvania State Police and local law enforcement reminding motorists to drive safely. The “combined accident reduction effort” known as Operation C.A.R.E. is designed to make drivers aware of public safety issues while also explaining that police will be out on extra patrols this weekend searching for impaired, aggressive or distracted drivers.

“The police are upping their game for enforcement, including with this Memorial Day weekend,” Garritty said.

He added that the 100 days between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day are the deadliest driving period of the year due to the number of people on the roads. Garritty also said people should observe “steer clear” laws that require motorists to move over to the other lane or slow down when there is a stopped vehicle on the side of the road, whether it be a police car, tow truck or disabled car.

“They’re out there, they’re doing their jobs and they’re doing their jobs for the safety of everyone,” Garritty said of first responders.