Labor Day Travel Expected to Increase 2.6 Percent

The increase in gas prices doesnt appear to be deterring Floridians from making travel plans for the upcoming Labor Day weekend.

AAA Travel projects that 1.6 million Floridians will be taking to the roads, air, and even the sea for trips of more than 50 miles during the early September weekend, an increase of 2.6 percent from a year ago.

Although overall economic growth continues to move at a sluggish pace, it is encouraging to see so many Americans value and prioritize travel, Brent Hubele, vice president, AAA Travel, stated in a release.

The health of the travel and tourism industry is a vital contributor to our economic recovery and supports almost 8 million jobs across the nation.

Gas prices are averaging 15 cents more than a year ago at this point, with the national average at $3.72 per gallon. During the 2011 Labor Day holiday weekend, gas averaged $3.66 a gallon.

Barring any significant unforeseen events such as severe hurricanes, geopolitical incidents or dramatic nationwide price increases, gas prices are not expected to have a major impact on Labor Day holiday weekend travel, AAA reported.