NEW ORLEANS — In your Breakdown: after a record-breaking summer for travel, Labor Day traffic will surge again in the air and on the roads.
AAA says the cost to travel domestically is down two percent and traveling is up nine percent.
First, to the airport. TSA predicts it will screen more than 17 million travelers in the next week.
MSY tells WWL Louisiana it expects Thursday, August 29th to be its busiest day, with up to 44-thousand available airline seats coming in and out of New Orleans.
The airport recommends reserving parking at least 24 hours in advance and checking your flight before you leave.
When it comes to traffic, get your road trip snacks ready, because there just might be traffic.
The national gas average last summer was $3.81, according to AAA, and this year, it’s $3.50. Louisiana is nearly a dollar below the national average, with the cheapest in New Orleans right around $2.60 per gallon.
AAA believes the busiest times for travel will be Thursday afternoon through Tuesday afternoon. If you’re driving, traffic will be best before noon.
If you’re driving to the beach, make sure you check out any warnings for your destination.
Right now, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is clear of any advisories.
The Alabama Gulf Coast has a medium hazard advisory for moderate surf.
And there are some beaches near Destin and Fort Walton in Florida showing advisories for poor water quality.
Pay attention to beach flag warnings and be cautious of rip currents.
Wherever you’re going this weekend, give yourself enough time to get there safely with increased crowds.