labor day travel safety tips

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Roads and airports will be crowded this weekend. Here's how to prepare

Rachel Treisman

A Delta Airlines plane lands near an In-N-Out Burger next to Los Angeles International Airport on Thursday. Mario Tama/Getty Images hide caption

A Delta Airlines plane lands near an In-N-Out Burger next to Los Angeles International Airport on Thursday.

This Labor Day weekend is shaping up to be a crowded one, from airports to interstates.

The Federal Aviation Administration predicts this will be the third-busiest holiday weekend of the year so far, behind the weekends of Juneteenth (which overlapped with Father's Day) and Presidents Day in February.

It's forecasting a peak of 52,000 flights on Thursday, compared to its daily average of 45,000.

Flying somewhere for Labor Day weekend? We’re forecasting a peak of 52,203 flights on Thursday, August 31. Get air travel tips to help you prepare at https://t.co/HzQWUCBzvV . #LaborDayWeekend pic.twitter.com/2yK7GT00rO — The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) August 28, 2023

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen more than 14 million passengers , which it says is almost 11% higher than last year at this time. It projects there will be more than 2.7 million passengers on Friday, its busiest day.

And AAA expects to see more traffic on the roads than it has in years, especially on Friday and Monday afternoons. It says Labor Day weekend bookings of flights, hotels, rental cars and cruises are up 4% domestically and 44% internationally over last Labor Day.

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And it's not just the sheer number of travelers that could create a hassle.

Parts of the South are still recovering from Hurricane Idalia, which temporarily closed several Florida airports and disrupted thousands of flights earlier this week. Plus, American Airlines flight attendants voted to authorize a strike on Wednesday, while United Airlines flight attendants and Southwest Airlines pilots picketed outside airports across the country on Thursday.

David Koenig, airlines reporter for the Associated Press, is cautiously optimistic. He says the flight attendants aren't likely to actually call a strike anytime soon — in part because federal law makes it so hard for airline unions to do so — and air travel seems to have recovered from the impacts of Idalia.

Lack of air traffic controllers is industry's biggest issue, United Airlines CEO says

But that doesn't mean there won't be cancellations, delays or other general inconveniences, he tells Morning Edition .

"The cautionary note is that airlines have struggled at times in the last couple of years, even during good weather, when air travel has come back the way it has," he says. "And we're also dealing with a shortage of air traffic controllers."

Here's what to know — and how to minimize stress — if you're heading out of town for the weekend.

If you're flying

People travel through the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Thursday. Brandon Bell/Getty Images hide caption

People travel through the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Thursday.

TSA Administrator David Pekoske says the agency is prepared for the increase in travel volumes this weekend.

He said in a statement that it's working with airlines and airports to ensure wait times are no more than 30 minutes in standard screening lanes and 10 minutes in TSA PreCheck lanes — but made no promises.

Traveling for the holidays? 7 tips to help you keep your cool

"There are occasions where wait times may be longer, so we encourage you to arrive early, pack your patience and reach out to us before arriving to the airport if you have any questions on our security procedures or items you may bring," he added.

TSA advises arriving two hours ahead of your scheduled flight, leaving extra time to navigate busy airports.

Use these tips to keep your time at the airport as easy as possible

To make your travel day even easier, Pekoske recommends packing properly ( here's what you can and can't bring in your carry-on) and keeping an acceptable ID out and ready when it's time to go through security.

People should also call TSA Cares 72 hours in advance to request any special accommodations, and contact their airline ahead of time to make sure any car seats, strollers and pet carriers are allowed on the plane.

You can check airport status and delays on the FAA website and monitor flight updates through your airline's website or app.

If you're driving

Traffic moves along Interstate 395 on Friday morning in Washington, D.C. Drew Angerer/Getty Images hide caption

Traffic moves along Interstate 395 on Friday morning in Washington, D.C.

If you're gearing up to hit the road this holiday weekend, you're not alone.

AAA anticipates the busiest travel time will be Friday afternoon when travelers will share the highway with daily commuters. The same goes for late Monday afternoon.

If you have any flexibility, it says, consider planning your drive for off-peak hours.

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The transportation analytics company INRIX says the best times for your road trip are before 11 a.m. on Friday, after 6 p.m. on Saturday and after 7 p.m. on Monday. It expects minimal traffic impact on Sunday.

"The best times to travel by car over Labor Day weekend are early in the morning or in the evening," says analyst Bob Pishue. "If you must travel during heavy traffic, navigation apps and local departments of transportation can help steer drivers around long delays."

AAA recommends taking some time to prepare your car before getting on the road.

Simple DIY maintenance tasks that will keep your car running smoothly — and save money

"It's important that drivers remember that their vehicle can break down just as easily over Labor Day weekend as it can at any time of year and that they take every precaution to ensure that their cars are road ready," says Amy Parmenter, spokesperson for AAA in Greater Hartford.

They advise checking tire pressure and tread, making sure your battery is in good condition, checking your air conditioning, windshield wipers, fluids and headlight functionality and fully charging your cell phone before driving.

AAA also recommends stocking your car with a summer emergency kit, including jumper cables, tools, first aid supplies, a flashlight, road flare or reflective triangle, extra medications, water and snacks.

The broadcast interview was produced by Ziad Buchh.

• holiday travel

5 travel tips for a smoother Labor Day weekend

The good news for procrastinators is there are still deals to be found.

Labor Day weekend is just about here, marking the unofficial close to the scorching hot summer months. It’s the last holiday travel weekend of the season, but just as popular.

AAA said domestic bookings are up 4 percent and international bookings are up 44 percent since last year, according to aggregated booking data for flights, hotels, rental cars and cruises. Booking platform Hopper estimates more than 20 million people will depart from U.S. airports this weekend, which is a roughly 14 percent increase from this time last year.

In a summer of extreme weather and crowds, travel experts said it’s important to build flexibility into your plans. And good news for last-minute planners: There are still deals to be found.

Here are five things to keep in mind for your travel plans over the holiday weekend.

It’s an ideal time for procrastinators

Travelers often face costly flight and accommodations costs when faced with last-minute travel, but experts suggest this weekend might be a good time to purchase travel on a tighter timeline.

Labor Day is typically seen as the least expensive of the three summer holiday weekends, and this year has seen significant cheaper travel than in previous ones, said Hopper economist Hayley Berg. A recent report from the travel booking site said airfare prices are down 11 percent from last year and 20 percent down from Labor Day weekend 2019.

The average price for a flight is $226 per ticket. Rental cars are also down 14.5 percent from this time last year, and average $41 on a daily basis.

Airfare is in its cheaper era. But for how long?

Part of the reason that is, Berg says, is due to an increased supply on flight and car rentals this summer compared to last year. This is coupled with other factors that are usually seen around August and September, including prices coming down for peak season, students returning to school and adults returning to more rigid in-person work schedules.

“September really marks the beginning of a low demand period for travel,” Berg said. “We typically see prices drop anywhere from 20 to 30 percent, from peak summer prices to the prices that will be for the next couple of weeks.”

Berg said the start of a low-demand, high-supply travel season is ideal for those looking for last-minute deals, since there will likely be more occupancy available on flights and hotels.

Here’s how to salvage summer vacation, according to travel experts

Expect crowds at airports and popular destinations

Like much of the summer , travelers can expect airports and popular destinations to be crowded.

The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen more than 14 million passengers for Labor Day weekend, with Friday as the busiest day with around 2.7 million travelers.

TSA Administrator David P. Pekoske said in an email that passenger volume is 11 percent higher than last year, and has already exceeded Labor Day weekend numbers from four years ago. It’s reflective of one of the busiest travel periods, the agency said, with roughly 227.5 million passengers making their way through security checkpoints since Memorial Day weekend.

It will be a crowded weekend for popular domestic destinations, such as Atlanta, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Following year-round trends, warmer locations should expect more tourist traffic, Berg said.

9 less-crowded vacation spots

Las Vegas is usually the most popular domestic destination throughout the year, Hopper said, and next weekend is no exception. Travel to the area is often more inexpensive and one of the most accessible locations in the western United States, and offers close access point to the Grand Canyon, which is about 130 miles near to the park’s West Rim in Arizona.

Other popular destinations include New York, Orlando and Seattle. Tourism for the Emerald City has also been boosted by a strong demand for Alaska cruises, similar to cruise ports in Florida, according to AAA data.

To avoid crowds, Pekoske recommends arriving two hours before your scheduled flight, educating yourself on TSA liquid and security policies to avoid tedious bag checks or even calling your airline beforehand to ensure you are prepared to take a flight, especially if you are bringing strollers, pets or extra equipment.

Consider travel insurance and a backup plan

Flying in the summer can be a gamble, especially during hurricane season and bad storms , when your flight is at risk for being canceled or delayed.

5 signs you have the wrong travel insurance

Berg said increases in disruptions is part of the reason more travelers are purchasing travel insurance, especially with longer trips or ones involving international destinations post-pandemic. It’s also cost-effective if you can’t afford to cancel or rebook your own trip.

Passengers can purchase travel insurance to cover weather-related issues, lost baggage and cancellations; check with your credit card company on what they cover. If you want more coverage, like if you get covid and have to postpone your trip, make sure your policy is a “cancel for any reason” policy.

Berg said unpredictable weather this summer, such as the wildfires in Maui and heavy rain seen across several regions throughout the United States, can make travel challenging. Those traveling abroad this summer have also likely faced inclement weather patterns, including back-to-back heat waves throughout the Mediterranean coast.

Albania hits all-time high as heat blasts southern Europe and fires rage

“There’s still a lot of anxiety from travelers about unexpected disruptions, how they will pay when they need an unexpected accommodation or need to book a new flight to get home on time or head back to work or school — whatever it is,” she said. “There is certainly still some anxiety about disruption lingering out there.”

It’s also important to build a disaster plan as extreme weather becomes a more common travel disrupter. Be prepared for evacuations, keep an eye on forecasts and pack extra essentials, such as medications, in case you get stuck.

Mornings and evenings are the best times to hit the road

Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, estimated in a recent AAA report that the best times to drive are early in the morning or in the evening throughout the weekend.

The AAA report estimates between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday to be the busiest time on roads over the course of the weekend. Friday is expected to have the highest traffic between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m.

There will also be increased congestion across several popular cities, such as travel into Atlanta on the Interstate 20 East and Chicago via Interstate 94 East, both of which should expect more traffic leading into the weekend itself.

What it's like to take a mystery road trip

The national average for a regular gallon of gas on Labor Day last year was $3.78, and although drivers taking road trips this weekend can likely see similar prices, prices have generally spiked in the last few months.

Last month, gas prices surged due to less supply and high oil costs. These costs decreased in August, but hurricane season’s peak in September brings concerns of potentially higher gas prices leading into the weekend.

Be prepared for delays and cancellations

Since it’s hard to predict whether your Labor Day flight could be delayed or canceled, Hopper recommends giving yourself as much wiggle room as possible to travel.

Flight cancellations were below 2 percent for the first four months of 2023, according to a Transportation Department report in June , lower than the 2.7 percent cancellation rate in 2022. Airlines reported being on time for more than 75 percent of their domestic flights.

Earlier this year, the agency also reported that nearly one-third of travel customer complaints were due to cancellations and delays, with the majority of flights involving Southwest Airlines.

If you need to make it to your destination for an event, the travel booking site recommends planning a buffer day in between to factor in any possible itinerary changes. Berg also recommends flying in the morning, because most disruptions happen in the afternoon and evening times.

So your flight got delayed. Here’s when you should head to the airport.

On the day of your flights, Berg also recommends checking any potential alternative flights in case yours is disrupted, educating yourself on what your airline owes you if you are canceled or delayed , and signing up for mobile or email alerts.

Travel experts recommend Labor Day weekend as an ideal time to squeeze in any bucket-list ideas on places to vacation or visit, due to overall lower costs in September and October.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

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Ten Travel Tips for Labor Day Travel: 2018

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Please note that older content is archived for public record. This page may contain information that is outdated and may not reflect current policy or programs.

If you have questions about policies or procedures, please contact the TSA Contact Center .

Members of the news media may contact TSA Public Affairs .

Labor day is fast approaching and we’ll be falling back and resetting our clocks before we know it! Whether you’re heading back to school or taking a trip for Labor Day, we wanted to provide you with some travel tips and information to help get you through our checkpoints and to your flights as easily as possible.

1) Arrive Early - The best advice we could ever give anybody is to arrive early when you can. You never know what kind of snag you’ll run getting to the airport. Whether it’s traffic, parking, airline, or security related, there are a number of unexpected ways you could be held up. To give you an idea of how busy the airports will be, here are the projected number of travelers during the Labor Day holiday period. Friday, August 31st will be the busiest day.

2) Check out Our Travel Tips - Have you visited our travel tips webpage yet? It’s chocked full of fun with travel tips that will help you plan ahead for your trip.  Learn about traveling with your pet, strollers and how not to be “that guy” at the airport checkpoint.

3) What to do if TSA Pre✓® is Not Reflected on Your Boarding Pass - If you’re looking at your boarding pass and you don’t see the TSA Pre✓® indicator even though you’re an approved trusted traveler, we’re here to help! Get live assistance by tweeting @AskTSA or messaging us via Facebook Messenger . Our AskTSA team can help resolve any issues. If you prefer to call, you can reach out to our contact center . Don’t have TSA Pre✓® yet and want to get through the line faster? You can fix that and apply for TSA Pre✓® now!

4) You Can Pack Both Liquid and Solid Medication in Your Carry-on -  One of the more popular questions we get from travelers is: “Can I travel with my medication?” The answer is yes. Liquid medications do not need to adhere to our liquid packing rules. Read our guidance on transporting your meds for all the details.

5) Helpful Tips for Traveling with Children - Did you know that children 12 and under can keep their shoes on? Read about the screening process and how to best pack for your child . Children 12 and under may also travel through the TSA Pre✓® lane if one or both of their parents have it!

6) Some Shaving Razors Can Be Packed in Your Carry-on - In brief, all razors are allowed in checked bags. Disposable razors are allowed in carry-on bags, and safety razors with removable blades are not. Refer to the image above to see if your razor can be packed in your carry-on.

7) How to Travel with Liquids, Gels & Aerosols - If you’re checking a bag, make your life simple by packing liquids in your checked baggage. That way, you don’t have to worry about the liquids rule . If you’re not checking a bag, you’re allowed to take as many 3.4 ounce or smaller sized containers that will fit in one sealed, clear, quart-sized zip-top bag – and one bag per person. Make sure you take the zip-top bag out of your carry-on prior to sending it through the X-ray.

8) E-Cigarettes are Permitted in Carry-on Bags Only -  E-cigarettes and vape pens are only allowed in carry-on bags. They’re prohibited in checked bags due to their lithium battery’s propensity to catch fire. Vape juice can be packed in either carry-on or checked bags, but it must adhere to the liquid rules mentioned above when being packed in carry-on bags.

9) Ask TSA When You Need TSA Related Assistance - Have questions? Reach out to our AskTSA team via Twitter at @AskTSA or via Facebook Messenger . We have a team standing by from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays. If you prefer to call or submit an online form, you can reach out to our contact center weekdays from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET and weekends/holidays from 9am-7pm ET daily.

10) Contact TSA Cares if You or a Loved One Has Medical Related Questions or Concerns - Call TSA Cares toll free at 855-787-2227 if you or a family member with a disability or medical condition have questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint 72 hours prior to traveling.

Follow @TSA on Twitter and Instagram and Like Us on Facebook . Have a question? Ask TSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger Bob Burns

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About This Blog

The purpose of this blog is to share the latest news and helpful information with the public. If you have questions about TSA or the information presented here, please contact our AskTSA customer care team on Twitter  or Facebook .

TSA is committed to protecting privacy and securing personal information. For details, see our website Privacy Policy .

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Labor Day is one of the worst days to travel. Here are some travel tips ahead of the busy holiday

Labor day, just like thanksgiving, the fourth of july, and memorial day, ranks as one of the busiest holidays for travel, by raven harper • published august 23, 2023 • updated on august 23, 2023 at 2:04 pm.

If you’re gearing up for the Labor Day weekend to savor the final moments of summer, brace yourself for extended travel times due to traffic as the holiday approaches.

Labor Day, much like Thanksgiving, the Fourth of July, and Memorial Day, is known for lots of heavy traffic, which can cause travel problems. 

Specifically, on the Friday before Labor Day, the average American can expect approximately 90% longer travel times, which means a drive that normally takes an hour could take around 1 hour and 54 minutes.

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Here’s what you should keep in mind before embarking on your Labor Day plans:

Busy travel destinations

As summer wraps up, many Americans are planning one last summer weekend getaway for Labor Day. Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, New York, and Las Vegas are some of the most popular destinations for the weekend, according to  AAA’s travel report .

Best times to travel

For those planning a Labor Day road trip, consider leaving early in the morning between the Wednesday and Friday before Labor Day. 

When making the return home, it’s better to travel later in the evening after 6 p.m. between Saturday and Monday. Avoid driving in the daytime because there will be more traffic.

Try not to travel on Friday and Monday afternoons, as those are expected to be the busiest times over the weekend. 

While gas prices  saw a rise earlier this summer due to global supply production cuts and extreme temperatures, prices heading in the weekend are expected to remain stable, and in some places, go down, according to AAA.

In addition to avoiding peak travel times, you can also make sure your tires have enough air and change your fluids and filters before getting on the road to save money at the pump. 

What to bring

Before you hit the road, make sure you’re prepared to be in the car for longer than usual. Bring things like snacks, water, jumper cables and a first aid kit in the car. Also, make sure your phone is charged before you start driving.

With these tips, you can avoid traffic problems and have a great end to the summer without getting stuck on the road and having your plans delayed.

For more information on Labor Day travel, visit the AAA website.

This article tagged under:

Labor Day Travel Safety: Tips for an Injury-Free Holiday Weekend

Labor Day marks the end of summer, offering a perfect opportunity for a final getaway before the fall season arrives. However, with many people off of work there comes an increase in traffic and an increase of hazards. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, catching a flight, or planning a weekend adventure, safety should always be a top priority. 

According to National Injury Facts, “the average number of traffic deaths during Labor Day over the last six years is 14% higher than the average number of traffic deaths during the comparison periods.”

Plan Ahead:

Before you hit the road or head to the airport, take the time to plan your trip thoroughly. Research your destination, accommodation, and local attractions. Make sure you have a clear idea of the route you’ll be taking and any potential stops along the way. 

Another aspect of planning ahead is being aware of what may cause an accident. The experienced car accident lawyers at Gray & White Law explain the main causes of car accidents, and the advantages of being prepared. 

Vehicle Safety:

If you’re traveling by car, ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Check the brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels. Always carry a spare tire, jack, and necessary tools for minor repairs. Buckle up, and ensure all passengers do the same. If you’re renting a car, familiarize yourself with its features before hitting the road.

Share Your Itinerary:

Inform a trusted friend or family member about your travel plans, including your route, accommodations, and estimated arrival times. This way, someone will know your whereabouts in case of an emergency.

Pack Smart:

Pack only what you need and avoid overloading your vehicle or luggage. Secure items properly to prevent them from shifting during travel. If you’re flying, be aware of the airline’s baggage policies and restrictions.

Stay Informed:

Monitor weather forecasts and road conditions for your route. Stay updated on any travel advisories or potential hazards in the area you’ll be visiting. This information can help you adjust your plans if necessary.

Secure Your Belongings:

Keep your valuables, such as passports, wallets, and electronics, in a secure and easily accessible place. Use locks on suitcases and bags to deter potential thieves.

Practice Safe Driving:

If you’re driving, follow traffic rules, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Take regular breaks to combat fatigue, especially during long drives.

Use Reputable Accommodations:

When booking accommodations, choose reputable hotels, motels, or vacation rentals. Read reviews and check for safety features like well-lit parking lots and security personnel.

Be Cautious in Crowded Areas:

If you’re visiting popular tourist spots, stay alert in crowded areas. Watch out for pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

Emergency Contacts:

Save important phone numbers, including local emergency services and your embassy or consulate, in your phone. Additionally, consider downloading travel safety apps that provide real-time information and assistance.

As you gear up for a memorable Labor Day weekend, remember that safety goes hand in hand with enjoyment. By planning ahead, staying informed, and following these travel safety tips, you can ensure a secure and stress-free holiday experience. Whether you’re exploring new destinations or relaxing with loved ones, your well-being should always be a top priority. Have a fantastic and safe Labor Day weekend!

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Labor Day Safety Tips

Are you traveling for labor day? You're not alone. According to AAA's Labor Day travel forecast, an estimated 35 million Americans traveled 50 miles or more last Labor Day weekend.

It can also be a dangerous weekend. The National Safety Council estimates that 420 people may be killed on US roads this Labor Day period.

Here are some safety tips to ensure a safe Labor Day Weekend:

Driving Tips

• Leave early
• Have alternate routes
• Be patient. A lot of people are traveling this weekend.
• If you encounter a drunk driver, contact local law enforcement. (You could save a life)
• Stay alert.

Water Safety

While a lot of people hit the water to beat the heat at the end of the summer, it can be dangerous if the proper precautions are not taken.

• Never consume alcohol while driving a boat.
• Always wear life preservers.
• Never dive headfirst.
• Always swim with a buddy.
• Always have a first aid kid nearby.
• Drink plenty of water.

Grilling Safety

• Check gas grill hoses for cracks, holes and leaks.
• Keep children away from grills.
• Never grill in the garage or anywhere inside.
• Keep your grill at least two feet ways from branches, decks, and any outdoor equipment that can easily catch fire.

Have a great Labor Day!

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10 Tips to Enjoy Labor Day Weekend Safely

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The end of the summer season is upon us, but your traditional Labor Day weekend plans and outings may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you are staying at home or venturing out, the American Red Cross has some tips to help you enjoy the holiday weekend safely.

WATER SAFETY Follow the guidance of your state and local public health officials. If you choose to take your family to the water, make sure the area is designated for swimming and is supervised by a lifeguard. Once there, maintain social distancing, both in and out of the water, between you and people who don’t live with you. If you don’t think your child can do this, come up with another activity.  

• Wear face coverings on land, especially when physical distancing is difficult. Do not wear them in the water as it may be difficult to breathe.
• Don’t share goggles, nose clips, snorkels or other personal items.
• A kiddie or inflatable pool can be a great way to have fun but be sure to provide constant supervision to children in and around it. Drain the water from the pool and flip it over after swim time is over.
• Wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating and have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear one around water.
• Prevent unsupervised access to water. Constantly supervise children around water and avoid distractions. In group situations, designate a water watcher whose sole responsibility it is to oversee the activity in the water until the next water watcher takes over.  

Take our free Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers online course and visit our Water Safety for Kids site for videos, activities and quizzes.

HEAT SAFETY Many areas of the country may experience high temperatures this weekend. Excessive heat can be life-threatening.  

• Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles. Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach dangerous levels within minutes.
• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Check on your pets and animals frequently to ensure they are not suffering stress from the heat.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and activities during the hottest part of the day.  

Download the free American Red Cross First Aid app for instant access on how to treat heat emergencies.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org , or follow us on social media.

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Labor Day Driving Safety Tips

With the end of summer near, the Labor Day holiday weekend is just around the corner. It also means that millions of drivers will be hitting the highway for one final weekend of adventure, making it one of the busiest holiday travel weekends of the year. But while you may be getting ready to head out for a weekend of fun and relaxation, it’s important to remain cautious.

So to help make sure you have the most enjoyable holiday weekend possible, you have to be sure that you’re car is prepared and that you’re following some of the most important Labor Day Weekend driving tips.

Labor Day Car Maintenance Tips

Like any road trip , you’ll want to ensure your car is ready for the drive ahead—after all, nothing rains on a Labor Day parade quite like an unexpected breakdown. So, before you buckle your seat belts , always follow these standard preventative maintenance steps:

1. Check Your Tires

Check the pressure of each tire, and bring it up (or down) to the recommended levels found in your owner’s manual . Not only does this help to prevent blowout, but it also gives better gas mileage. While you’re at it, check your tire’s tread, and consider getting a tire rotation if you haven’t in the last 5,000 to 8,000 miles.

2. Check Fluids & Replace Filters

Brake fluid, coolant , transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid will all need checking and topping up if necessary. If it’s been more than 3,000 miles since your last oil change , it could be worth having that done too. Finally, make sure to clean or change your air filter completely.

3. Test Brakes & Lights

It goes without saying that brakes are vital for your safety, so check them thoroughly. If your brake pads are feeling spongy , you may need to add brake fluid. Any unusual noises coming from your brakes should be checked by a professional before you leave. Have someone walk around your car while you test the lights, including the brake lights, and if any of them aren’t working, replace the bulbs immediately.

4. Check Your Battery

You aren’t going anywhere with a bad battery. Pop the hood and look at yours, specifically checking for signs of corrosion on the terminals. If you see any, it can usually be cleaned quite easily with baking soda and water. It’s also recommended that you have your battery health tested, which auto shops will usually do for free.

5. Check Belts & Hoses

Belts keep almost everything in your vehicle running. Check yours for cracks or fraying, and ensure they’re adequately tight. Move on to your hoses and inspect for drips, leaks, or cracking. If your car is low on coolant , this is usually a sign that a leak is present.

6. Clean Your Car Inside & Out

If you’re going to be driving for a long time, you’ll want to make sure you’re comfortable. Clean your car inside and out to give yourself maximum room to stretch out. Plus, a clean exterior is proven to improve fuel efficiency .

Preparing your vehicle can help you avoid potential issues, but it can’t help with everything. But when you’re an Endurance Warranty customer , you can get peace of mind knowing that any Endurance auto protection plan will help cover the repairs you may need for your car’s vital components at no additional cost to you. We’ll even be able to help you if your car breaks down away from home with complimentary services like 24/7 roadside assistance and towing, so you can be certain you’ll never be stuck on the side of the road , no matter the time of year. 

Safe Driving Tips for Labor Day Weekend

Once you know your car is all set for your trip, it’s time to buckle up and head out. But even while your car may be ready, driving long distances on busy roads comes with its own set of challenges. That’s why, by following some of the top Labor Day Weekend driving safety tips , you can be sure that your trip will be smooth sailing:

1. Get Your Vehicle Prepared

Once you’ve completed all the necessary maintenance, make sure you’re stocked up on everything you’ll need for the trip. As well as any clothes, food, and navigation materials, you’ll also want to pack a car emergency kit that’s topped up with essentials like a first-aid kit , drinking water, some snacks and even things like a portable phone charger. Thorough car care should keep you from being stranded at the roadside, but it pays to be prepared for the worst.

2. Make Sure to Plan Ahead

Technology has made organizing trips easier than ever, so there’s really no excuse not to plan ahead. Download any useful road trip apps before you leave, and use them to put together a detailed itinerary. Also, make sure you know your exits by name and number, and closely watch signs as you near the ramp. Many accidents are caused by drivers suddenly changing lanes before they miss an exit.

3. Avoid Driving at Peak Times

When it comes to safe driving, it always helps to slow down and not rush to help you stay safe and avoid potential car accidents . But if you don’t time your trip right, you may have no choice but to slow down , thanks to bumper-to-bumper holiday traffic. Mainly, like you, many others around the country are looking to get out and enjoy the long weekend . But that also means that, like you, other motorists may have the same plan to just jump in their cars right after work and head off in rush hour traffic, making late afternoon to early evening a dangerous time to travel. So instead of waiting, leave as early as possible on Friday or Saturday morning (between 5 am to 7 am is best), or even earlier in the week if you can. Coming home, avoid heavy traffic by leaving before noon on Monday. Even better, take additional days off work and do your traveling the Thursday before and Tuesday after.

4. Let a Passenger Handle Navigation

Most modern vehicles have GPS systems built in, but if yours doesn’t, there’s no need to worry as most cell phones also come with the same capabilities. However, whether it’s on your phone or a part of your car’s infotainment system , let someone else handle it if you’re driving with friends . You have enough to think about without being distracted by your phone, and a passenger has their hands free to search for alternative routes if necessary. Keep your eyes on the road, and you’re in a better position to keep everyone in the vehicle safe .

5. Don’t Cut in Front of Large Trucks

Large trucks are some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road, and due to their size and weight, their stopping distances are much greater. While you may be desperate to take an exit, it’s much more sensible to continue driving and loop back around than it is to cut in front of a truck. Doing so is almost guaranteed to cause an accident.

6. Be Aware of Trucks’ Blind Spots

While we’re still on the subject of trucks, it’s important to consider their blind spots . If you can’t see a truck’s mirrors from wherever you are, the truck driver can’t see you. Give trucks a wide berth wherever possible, and don’t get too close to their rear either.

7. Limit Night-Time Driving

Most road accidents happen at night , so avoid being on the roads after sunset if possible. If you want to go out in the evening, try a safer option like ridesharing , a taxi, or public transportation. Of course, this allows you to drink too, which very few people would complain about. Although there are legal limits on how much you can drink and drive, it’s never recommended that you do.

8. Alert Authorities If You See a Drunk Driver

Drunk driving sadly kills around 34 people each day , according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA ) traffic fatalities . In fact, 30% of traffic fatalities are caused by drunk drivers . Combine this fact with the number of celebrations during Labor Day weekend , and the number of drunk drivers is sure to rise, meaning you need to be diligent when on the road. For the safety of yourself, other drivers, and pedestrians, it’s important you dial 911 when you spot one. Tell the authorities which road or major intersection the driver was on and which direction they were traveling.

Enjoy Labor Day Without Worry with Endurance

Routine maintenance and safe driving can be a great way to help ensure your Labor Day Weekend travels go smoothly. But while it can help boost your chances of driving worry-free, even the most well-maintained cars can’t avoid every breakdown. And when your car breakdowns on a road trip , things could get tricky—but not  when you have Endurance . 

Like a car’s factory warranty, an Endurance auto protection plan can help cover you from expensive repair bills for your car’s vital components. But unlike coverage from automakers, Endurance customers are able to take their vehicle to any certified mechanic or repair shop of their choice. You’ll even get to enjoy extra perks like 24/7 roadside assistance and towing, trip interruption coverage and rental car reimbursements so you can ensure your trip goes on with as little delay as possible, regardless of the Endurance plan you have.  You can also enjoy some  Endurance Elite Benefits for an entire year, including help paying for tire replacements or repairs, plus collision discounts and more. Simply choose the plan that fits your needs and budget, activate your Elite Benefits and enjoy a full year of extra perks and savings. 

Want more information and a free, no-obligation quote? Get in touch via telephone or use the button above. But before you go, make sure to check out even more helpful and insightful articles, including even more driving and maintenance tips, vehicle buying guides, extended warranty coverage comparisons and more, by visiting the  Endurance blog .

For media inquiries, please contact Jessica Campbell, Director of Marketing at Endurance Warranty Services, at [email protected] .

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