High gas, record road trips. Summer starts on the highway.
Americans are travelling in record numbers despite fuel costs, and most are driving. Hotels within a few hours of big cities have the best shot this summer.
By the Xuru Technologies team · 12 May 2026
Key takeaways
- AAA projects a record 45 million travellers from 21 to 25 May 2026, beating last year's 44.8 million.
- 39.1 million are expected to drive, the most ever for Memorial Day.
- Demand stays strong despite higher fuel prices.
Memorial Day sets the tone for summer. This year's forecast says people still want to travel, and they want to stay closer to home and drive.
What happened
NBC reported AAA's projections, noting more people will also fly after early bookers locked in fares before jet fuel costs rose.
What it means for hotels
- Drive markets win. Hotels two to four hours from major cities are prime.
- Last-minute searches. Road-trippers book on phones, often the same day.
- Parking and EV charging matter. Put them front and centre.
Capturing road-trip demand
| Action | Why |
|---|---|
| Google Business Profile up to date | Shows in Maps for "hotels near me". |
| Mobile booking in a few taps | Converts same-day travellers. |
| Local guides on your site | Ranks for trip-planning searches. |
| Pet and family policies visible | Answers the questions drivers ask. |
Frequently asked questions
How many people travel over Memorial Day 2026?AAA projects a record 45 million Americans travelling at least 50 miles between 21 and 25 May 2026.
AAA projects a record 45 million Americans travelling at least 50 miles between 21 and 25 May 2026.
Are high gas prices stopping travel?Not overall. AAA says travel demand remains strong, with a record 39.1 million expected to drive.
Not overall. AAA says travel demand remains strong, with a record 39.1 million expected to drive.
How can a hotel get last-minute road-trip bookings?Keep your Google profile accurate, make mobile booking quick and highlight parking, pets and family amenities.
Keep your Google profile accurate, make mobile booking quick and highlight parking, pets and family amenities.
Be the easy stop on every road trip.
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