Shreveport residents planning a Labor Day getaway should brace for higher travel expenses. AAA predicts Thursday will be the busiest day of the holiday weekend, with millions of Americans on the road and in the air.
Gas prices on the rise
The national average price for regular gasoline has climbed to about $4.12 per gallon, up from last year’s figures. In neighboring Louisiana and Texas, drivers can expect to pay roughly $3.68 per gallon. Travelers can locate the lowest local prices using tools like the KTBS Gas Tracker.
Airfare also up
Air travel isn’t immune to the price surge. Average airline tickets are about 2% higher than they were a year ago. Industry experts warn that waiting to book could cost even more. Clint Henderson, managing editor of The Points Guy, says holiday fares are already 13% to 18% above baseline and could spike to 30% or more if travelers delay.
Julian Kheel, CEO of Points Path, advises shoppers to lock in a fare that fits their budget while continuing to monitor prices, noting that most tickets—except basic economy—can be changed or cancelled without penalty.
Top destinations
According to AAA, the most popular domestic spots for Labor Day travelers include Seattle, Orlando, Boston, Denver and New York. Whether heading to a beach, a theme park, or a city break, families and individuals should plan ahead to avoid unexpected costs.
For those in the Shreveport‑Bossier area, local airports are preparing for the influx of travelers, and the region’s hotels are seeing increased bookings. Residents are encouraged to compare gas prices, book flights early, and consider flexible ticket options to keep holiday travel affordable.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.