Record number of Arizonans expected to travel for Memorial Day

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — If you’re planning a road trip for Memorial Day, expect it to be busy!

AAA reports that nearly 1 million Arizonans will be traveling, the highest number ever recorded.

“If you’re traveling on Thursday or Friday before Memorial Day those are going to be the busiest days. So, you want to start your trip as early as possible. Get out the door and get on the road before 11 a.m.,” said Julian Paredes, spokesperson for AAA.

AAA projects a record 38.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend. That’s up 4% compared to last year.

In addition, AAA expects this will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005 with 3.51 million air travelers.

To prepare for the busy weekend, AAA recommends that you make sure your car is in tip- top shape to avoid any speed bumps.

“This is a great time to get your car service. You want to check your car for tires, make sure there’s enough tread. Make sure your car battery is ready, especially in Arizona car batteries don’t last as long,” Paredes said.

Whether you’re traveling by car or plane, the best thing you can do is plan ahead.

“Planning is really your best friend when it comes Memorial Day. Things can be stressful. There will be a lot of people on the road. Lots of traffic. So, if you do a lot of planning it can really spare you a big headache,” Paredes said.

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