Hitting the road for Memorial Day? You’ll be in good company. AAA says approximately 30.7 million Americans plan to drive to their destination this year, an increase of more than 500,000 travelers compared to 2011.
However, people won’t be traveling as far as they have in previous years, a AAA survey found. High gas prices and tight budgets are forcing travelers to rethink their trips. The average distance of travel this year is expected to be 642 miles, 150 miles less than last year’s Memorial Day holiday.
Forty-seven percent of survey respondents said they’ll handle the high gas prices by cutting other costs so they can still make their trip. Those who intend to economize plan to reduce entertainment costs, stay at less expensive hotels or stay with friends.
The annual survey considers those traveling 50 miles or more between May 24 and May 28 as holiday travelers.