Labor Day weekend in the U.S. is expected to be packed with travelers heading to airports, highways, beaches, and theme parks to mark the unofficial end of summer. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) predicted it would screen over 17 million passengers during the holiday period, which started Thursday and runs through the next Wednesday. Flight delays were common, with over 200 U.S. flights canceled and more than 4,500 delayed. The busiest day was expected to be Friday, signaling the winding down of the summer travel season.
The potential trouble spots for travelers include weather-related flight delays and possible cyberattacks, such as the one experienced at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. While the airport was running normally, passengers were advised to arrive early and avoid checking bags due to issues with the bag-sorting system. Prices for gasoline have decreased, but depending on the state, prices for electric vehicle charging can vary. Airfares have also seen a decrease from June to July, making travel more affordable as the peak summer vacation season comes to an end.
The best time to hit the road over the holiday weekend is early morning or late evening to avoid traffic congestion. Transportation-data provider INRIX predicts the heaviest traffic will be between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday when people are heading home. Airports are expected to be busiest on Friday, with the TSA screening an estimated 2.86 million passengers. While delays and cancellations are possible, travelers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to have backup options in case of disruptions.
If flights are delayed or canceled, passengers are advised to contact the airline for rebooking options. Airlines are required to provide refunds for canceled flights, including extra fees, but are not obligated to offer cash compensation. Passengers may also inquire about compensation for overnight accommodations, meals, and ground transportation if they are stuck due to a controllable disruption. It is recommended to keep receipts for out-of-pocket expenses in case a claim needs to be filed later.
Some final tips for travelers include leaving early to account for longer wait times, monitoring weather conditions for any potential disruptions, and considering not checking a bag to avoid the risk of loss, damage, or theft. Despite the potential challenges of holiday travel, many Americans are still eager to take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy one last summer getaway before the fall season begins.
