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AAA: Cruises, National Parks, and European Cities Popular Among Labor Day Travelers   

Top destinations include Seattle, Orlando, Boston, Rome, Vancouver, and London

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (Aug. 24, 2026) - As the summer season comes to an end, many travelers are taking advantage of the last long holiday weekend. AAA booking data shows Seattle, Orlando, and Boston are top domestic destinations. Meanwhile Rome, Vancouver, London, Dublin, and Paris top the international list. 

“These Labor Day destinations reflect travelers’ desires to create memorable experiences,” said Cyndi Zesk, Senior Vice President of Travel, AAA Mountain West Group. “AAA Members are embarking on Alaska cruises and river cruises, touring National Parks, and sightseeing across Europe. Many of our members are also looking ahead to 2027 and booking cruises and tours now before they sell out.”

Domestic vs. International

Whether travelers choose domestic versus international trips depends on their budget, schedule, and interests. 

  • Domestic travel is up 2% for roundtrip flights compared to last year, averaging $750 per ticket. 
  • The price is even higher for travel to the most popular domestic destinations. AAA booking data shows those flights are up 20%, averaging nearly $800 per ticket. 
  • International flights are 4% cheaper this Labor Day weekend, averaging $1,240 per ticket.

Hitting the road

For those hitting the road, gas prices are higher this Labor Day weekend compared to last year. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.19 on Labor Day in 2025 when crude oil prices were lower. Before hitting the road, AAA recommends:

  • Checking your tires, battery, and fluids to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition.
  • Packing an emergency kit with water, snacks, first-aid supplies, and essential tools like flashlights and jumper cables is also important. 
  • Last Labor Day weekend, AAA came to the rescue of the following number of Members in each state for flat tires, dead batteries, and emergency towing:
  • California: 27,996
  • Nevada: 4,403
  • Utah: 1,559
  • Arizona: 8,847
  • Wyoming: 227
  • Montana: 672
  • Alaska: 168

Making sure every ride is a safe one

AAA is urging drivers to prioritize safety by committing to sober driving and planning ahead for a safe ride home before heading out for the holiday. AAA also reminds drivers to Slow Down, Move Over when approaching any stopped vehicle on the side of the road. By staying focused, slowing down and moving over, wearing your seatbelt, and arranging safe transportation, every driver can do their part to protect others and ensure everyone makes it home safe this Labor Day weekend and beyond. 

Streamline your next trip with TSA PreCheck® at AAA

AAA Utah and AAA Northern California are both now offering in-person enrollment in TSA PreCheck® through CLEAR at several branches. The service provides a quick and efficient process that offers five years of benefits with 90+ airlines at 200+ airports nationwide. To find a participating branch and schedule an appointment to simplify your next trip, visit mwg.aaa.com/travel/tsa-precheck. 

AAA Arizona hosts travel showcase in downtown Phoenix

Ready to plan your next adventure? Join AAA Arizona for TravelFest 2026, an immersive travel showcase on Saturday September 12, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown. This high-energy event offers the public an exclusive opportunity to connect with top vendors from across the travel industry, receive expert guidance from AAA Travel Advisors, and secure on-the-spot bookings. Plus exclusive travel deals, giveaways, and raffles throughout the day. To RSVP visit aaa.com/travelfest. 

Media Toolkit

Video sound bites are available and can be downloaded here. The spokesperson is Doug Johnson, AAA Mountain West Group.

About AAA Mountain West Group

For over a century, AAA Mountain West Group (MWG) has served as a mission-driven, member-centric organization.Guided by its mission of People Helping People and powered by 5,400 dedicated team members, MWG delivers exceptional roadside assistance, auto repair, travel planning, financial and insurance services, home security, and exclusive member discounts. With a vision focused on creating Members for Life, MWG guides Members through every stage of their journey, serving more than 6.9 million people throughout Alaska, Arizona, Nevada, Northern California, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. Recognized by Forbes as one of the Most Trusted Companies in America, AAA has grown into one of the largest and most trusted membership organizations in North America. Learn more at mwg.aaa.com.

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