Travel: Labor Day
by Patrick
Comments Off on Holiday travelers defy sluggish economy
Holiday travelers defy sluggish economy
The nation’s economic recovery seems to be slowing down, but not travel plans to enjoy the last days of summer.
Some 34.4 million Americans are making trips this Labor Day weekend, according to an AAA survey, up 9.9 percent from last year’s dismal showing.
Vacationers will also spend more this year, the survey shows. Median spending is expected to be $697, up nearly $50.
Travelers are expected to pay more for airfares, 9 percent higher; car rentals, up 7 percent; and hotels.
But one thing they won’t be spending more on is gas. Regular unleaded, now averaging $2.68 a gallon, is down almost 20 cents from the spring, an AAA report says. Texas prices are averaging $2.51.
Meanwhile, nine out of 10 people are traveling by car this holiday weekend.