AAA Chicago Expects Increase in Labor Day Travel Despite High Gas Prices

AURORA, Ill., Aug. 25, 2003 -- A total of 33.4 million travelers plan to take a trip 50 miles or more from home this Labor Day holiday, which is up 1.2 percent from last year.

Of the total number of people traveling, 28.2 million are expected to drive, which is up 2.2 percent from last year. Another 3.7 million plan to travel by air, down 2.6 percent from a year ago, while 1.5 million will travel by train, bus or other mode of transportation, up from 1.4 million in 2002.

"Labor Day typically represents a last chance for families to take a vacation before the start of the school year," said Steve Nolan, spokesman for AAA Chicago. "Many families appear intent on taking advantage of a long weekend away from home, despite the recent increase in gas prices."

Most auto travelers will originate in the West, with 6.9 million, followed by the Southeast, with 6.7 million; Midwest, 5.3 million; Northeast, 4.8 million; and Great Lakes, 4.5 million.

The largest number of travelers (28 percent) plan to visit cities; 22 percent plan on visiting towns or rural areas; 18 percent are expecting to visit oceans or beaches; lakes, 11 percent; mountains 8 percent; state/national parks, 4 percent; and theme/amusement parks, 2 percent.

Of those spending at least one night at their destination, 46 percent plan to stay at a hotel or motel while 27 percent expect to stay with a friend or relative.

Other overnight plans include: camper/trailer/RV/tent, 14 percent; cabin or condo, 8 percent; and other, 2 percent. Another 3 percent had not made overnight plans or hadn't decided.

AAA Chicago is a non-profit, tax paying membership organization serving more than 800,000 members and the general public in Illinois and Northern Indiana. AAA Chicago provides automotive, insurance, travel and financial services, and is a member of The Auto Club Group.