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AAA projects 35.5 million Americans to take to the road, sky and sea this Labor Day weekend.
Defined as the period between Sept. 3 and Sept. 7, this year's holiday weekend projection represents the highest volume since 2008 and a one percent rise over 2014 despite the fact that Labor Day 2015 falls so late on the calendar.
More than 30 million (86 percent) of the aforementioned American travelers are expected to take a road trip to their Labor Day destination this year. However, air travel is also projected to grow, with 2.6 million Americans set to fly for the holiday. That figure marks the highest number for Labor Day weekend since 2007.
"A strong labor market coupled with greater job security and rising home prices have all helped to increase disposable income," said AAA spokeswoman Beth Mosher in a statement. "Though some consumers remain cautious, these positive indicators are driving a slight increase and allowing millions of Americans to travel on one last summer getaway."
AAA's forecast found that Americans' disposable income rose by 3.5 percent this year.
On top of that, the national average price for a gallon of gas stands at just $2.57. That's 86 cents cheaper than last year's national average and the lowest average since 2009.
While travelers will save at the pump this upcoming holiday weekend, they can expect to pay a little more for accommodations. AAA revealed that the average night at one of its Three Diamond lodgings is projected to increase two percent from 2014, with guests spending an average of $175 per night compared to $171.
Meanwhile the average nightly rate for an AAA Two Diamond property has increased 10 percent from Labor Day 2014, rising $13 to an average price of $138 per night. That figure is the highest for Labor Day in five years.
Although travelers' destinations will vary, each of the projected 35.5 million is expected to travel at least 50 miles from home for the holiday.
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