For the first time in 20 years, AAA has not issued a Memorial Day travel forecast due to the COVID-19 pandemic – 2020 will likely set a record low for Memorial Day travel, which is considered the unofficial start to summer. Normally, at this time of year – we are gearing up for a busy holiday weekend followed by a bustling summer travel season. In 2019, AAA’s report showed that nearly 43 million Americans traveled 50 miles for Memorial Day. While this year will be different, new travel trends are emerging.

Day trips are picking up already - AAA has seen an influx of people reaching out asking for directions to New York State Parks for walking trails to enjoy nature and social distancing. AAA expects road trips to be popular this year – with travelers taking one tank getaways, followed by short weekend trips, and extending into longer escapes to drive-able destinations. Some of the favorites include East Coast beaches like the Outer Banks, Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod, the Smoky Mountains and historical destinations like Gettsyburg and Colonial Williamsburg, which are popular with families. Find AAA’s new online road trip page at AAA.com.

Before heading out this weekend, remember to keep social distancing in place, and always take care of personal hygiene (face masks, hand sanitizer) while the vehicle is parked to avoid distractions behind the wheel. If your car has sat dormant for an extended period of time, be sure to have it looked over by a certified mechanic to address any mechanical issues. AAA Western and Central New York battery calls increased 47 percent in April as many motorists found dead batteries in unused vehicles.

If you are considering a summer road trip, now is a good time to pack a safety kit for your vehicle including jumper cables, a phone charger, water and snacks in case your vehicle becomes disabled on the roadway.

With more communities reopening, gasoline demand is on the rise. Expect prices to begin to increase with demand. As of May 22, the national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $1.94, up seven cents in the past week. In New York State, the average is $2.18—last year, it was $2.96. In the Western and Central New York region, the averages are as follows:

 
•    Batavia - $2.21
•    Buffalo - $2.20
•    Ithaca - $2.11
•    Rochester - $2.20
•    Rome - $2.16
•    Syracuse - $2.08
•    Watertown - $2.17