u/Tirefire78

Womp womp womp

Travelers looking for that last summer getaway should expect to pay more this year over last for everything from gas and lodging to food, but that’s not going to stop them, according to AAA.
AAA has not released travel projections for the Labor Day weekend, but booking data from the travel experts shows a 4% increase in overall domestic travel bookings over last year.
“Labor Day has long been a popular time for a final summer getaway, and travelers continue to prioritize vacations with family and friends,” said Mark Jenkins, a spokesman for AAA. “Whether it’s a cruise, a national park adventure, or an international trip, travelers are eager to make the most of the holiday weekend.”

An estimated 17 million Americans traveled during the 2025 Labor Day holiday.
This year’s travelers will be paying more.
Average domestic round-trip airfare is up 2% from last year to $790 while domestic hotel prices are up 9% according to AAA data.
The biggest hit will be on those who drive.
GasBuddy is predicting the national average price of regular unleaded gas will be $4.03 a gallon, 87 cents higher than last year and the highest on record, surpassing the $3.83 drivers saw in 2012.
The average price in the area on Monday, Aug. 31, was $3.72, down about 20 cents from a month ago but up more than 60 cents from last year.

“It’s been a challenging year for motorists, with constant ups and downs at the pump that stayed elevated into this final summer holiday, though relief may lie ahead if tensions ease,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “Last year saw the cheapest Labor Day since 2020, but the pendulum has swung wildly this summer. This year has been less about typical supply and demand, and more about uncertainty over how global tensions will affect the availability of crude oil and refined products.”
There is some good news for travelers.
AAA reports international airfare and cruise departures from U.S. ports are both down 4%.
Those looking for a local getaway for Labor Day might want to consider Kings Island.
Sunday, Sept. 6, marks the last evening of the Nightime Spectacular fireworks, and Labor Day is the last day for Soak City.
The weekend is the deadline to purchase or renew season passes for 2027 while also getting the remainder of 2026 and access to Halloween Haunt and WinterFest.
“Like many holiday weekend, Labor Day brings a lively and bustling atmosphere to the park as families and friends come together to celebrate the final days of summer,” said Sara Gorgon, spokesperson for Kings Island. “Gusts can still enjoy a fun and memorable visit while taking in everything the park has to offer during this seasonal tradition. As summer comes to a close, we’re excited to begin preparations for Halloween Haunt and, later in the year, WinterFest.”
Labor Day travelers will pay more for their end of summer getaway.

MAGA will certainly be celebrating the closing of Navistar in Springfield this month. Don’t let the irony of a Canadian company buying the plant be lost on you. More winning!