If you’re considering travel plans out of New York City for Labor Day weekend, you might want to account for some serious additional travel time.
Millions of Americans are expected to hit the roads for one last summer getaway, and the traffic is going to get heavy.
Best and worst times to travel
According to INRIX and AAA, travel over Labor Day weekend tends to be concentrated within a short window.
Many travelers will hit the road after work on Thursday or during the day on Friday. This brings holiday traffic onto roads that are already carrying normal commuter volumes.
INRIX recommends departing early, allowing additional time, and avoiding the middle of the afternoon whenever possible. Even leaving an hour or two earlier can make a meaningful difference.
Here are the best and worst times to travel by car:
Thursday, September 3: Best before 1:00 PM | Worst from 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Friday, September 4: Best before 12:00 PM | Worst from 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturday, September 5: Best before 10:00 AM | Worst from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Sunday, September 6: Minimal traffic impact expected
Monday, September 7: Best before 12:00 PM | Worst from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Peak congestion for New York drivers
peeterv / Getty Images
If you are heading out from the city, be prepared for specific bottlenecks.
For those driving from New York to the Jersey Shore via the Garden State Parkway South, expect peak congestion around 4:15 PM on Thursday.
This route is estimated to see a travel time increase of 68% over normal, taking about 2 hours and 23 minutes.
How to prepare for the drive
Drivers are strongly advised to check tires, car batteries, and fluid levels before traveling.
Make sure your car is in good shape before hitting the highway, as AAA received over 400,000 roadside assistance calls last year.
To help reduce stress, leave early to avoid peak congestion periods. While driving, monitor gas prices and try to fill up before you reach heavily traveled corridors, where prices are likely to be much more expensive.
Safe travels, New York!