- Affordable Domestic Travel: Costs for domestic flights (down 6%), hotels (down 11%), and car rentals (down 3%) are all lower for Labor Day 2025 compared to the previous year.
- Top Destinations: Popular domestic destinations include Seattle, Orlando, and New York, while Vancouver and European cities like Rome and London lead the international list.
- International Cost Trends: While international airfare has increased by 8%, travelers can find significant savings on international car rentals (down 42%) and cruises (down 9%).
- Travel Advice: Gas prices are expected to remain stable, and drivers are advised to travel early in the day to avoid peak traffic congestion.
As the summer season draws to a close, Americans are getting ready to celebrate with one last memorable escape for Labor Day weekend, and the travel outlook is wonderfully bright. According to the latest booking data from AAA, it is a fantastic time to plan a trip, with a wide array of exciting and affordable options available for every type of traveler. Whether you are dreaming of a city adventure, a scenic cruise, or a relaxing road trip, current trends show that a great getaway is well within reach.
This year is particularly inviting for domestic travel. Families and solo explorers will be delighted to find that costs for exploring the U.S. are trending lower than last year. Domestic round-trip flights are about 6 percent cheaper, while hotel stays have seen a significant 11 percent decrease in price. Even car rentals are slightly more affordable, making it easier to discover top destinations like Seattle, Orlando, and New York. With stable gas prices expected throughout the holiday, hitting the road for a final summer adventure is an even more appealing prospect.
For those with an eye on international horizons, there are plenty of wonderful opportunities as well. Vancouver is the top international destination, followed by timeless European hotspots like Rome, Dublin, and London. While international airfare has seen a modest increase, travelers can find substantial savings on the ground. International car rentals are down an impressive 42 percent, and cruises departing from foreign ports are also more affordable. These savings on hotels and transportation make a global trip an excellent value. With so many great deals available, smart planning today can lead to a truly special and budget-friendly end-of-summer celebration.