INDIANA — AAA is forecasting a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend, with nearly 45 million Americans expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between May 21 and May 25, 2026. This projection surpasses 2025 levels and signals a robust appetite for summer travel.
In Indiana alone, roughly 969,000 Hoosiers are expected to join the holiday exodus, with the vast majority—878,000—choosing to go by car.
Travelers should prepare for both crowded highways and higher costs. Gas prices are currently at their highest levels since 2022, exacerbated locally by the expiration of a temporary state tax waiver that provided a brief reprieve earlier this month.
To avoid the worst delays, experts suggest timing your departure carefully:
- Peak Congestion: Thursday, May 21, and Friday, May 22, between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Return Traffic: Heavy congestion is also expected on the afternoon of Monday, May 25.
- Best Travel Day: Sunday, May 24, is projected to have the lightest traffic.
While driving remains the preferred method, roughly 3.66 million people will take to the skies. Flying may be a more budget-friendly option this year, as domestic round-trip airfares have dropped by 6% compared to 2025. AAA also expects an uptick in travel via bus, train, and cruises as travelers diversify their itineraries.
Travel demand remains strong, according to Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. Despite higher fuel prices, many people are prioritizing leisure travel during holiday breaks.
Based on AAA booking data, the top spots for the holiday include:
| Domestic Favorites | International Hotspots |
| Orlando, FL | Rome, Italy |
| Seattle, WA | Vancouver, Canada |
| New York, NY | Paris, France |
| Las Vegas, NV | London, England |
| Anchorage, AK | Athens, Greece |
Safe Driving Reminders
With nearly a million Hoosiers on the road, Indiana State Police and local agencies will be conducting their annual “Click It or Ticket” blitz. Motorists are reminded to buckle up and avoid distractions to ensure a safe start to the summer season.
