Labor Day weekend is just around the corner, and it is expected to be one of the busiest times for travel. If you want to avoid the crowds and have a smoother experience, it’s essential to plan your trip strategically. According to a recent analysis by NerdWallet, the best and worst days to fly during Labor Day weekend can be determined by looking at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) data.
Based on the past three years’ data, the Friday before Labor Day has consistently been the busiest day for air travel during the seven-day period before and after the holiday. If you want to avoid long lines and overcrowded airports, it’s best to steer clear of flying on this day. Similarly, Labor Day Monday has been the busiest day for the seven-day period starting on Labor Day and spanning the subsequent days.
To help you plan your Labor Day weekend travel, here are the least crowded and most crowded days based on an average of data from the past four years:
Least crowded days to travel (pre-holiday):
1. Tuesday before (overall least crowded day pre-holiday)
2. Wednesday before
3. Saturday before
Least crowded days to travel (post-holiday):
1. Saturday after (overall least crowded day post-holiday)
2. Wednesday after
3. Tuesday after
If you want to have a “smarter, cheaper” Labor Day weekend travel itinerary, here are some tips:
1. Fly out on the Tuesday or Wednesday before Labor Day. These days tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.
2. Consider traveling on Saturday morning instead of Friday afternoon. This can help you avoid the rush and potentially save money on flights.
3. Fly home on Sunday instead of Labor Day Monday. This will help you avoid the busiest day at the airport and give you an extra day to relax before returning to work.
In conclusion, Labor Day weekend is expected to be a busy time for travel, but by planning your trip strategically and choosing the least crowded days to fly, you can save time, money, and stress. Remember to consider the tips provided and have a fantastic Labor Day weekend getaway.
