Fuel, airfare angst takes a bite out of Memorial Day holiday getaways for Illinoisans

Despite high fuel prices, the number of Americans traveling over Memorial Day is expected to break a record, but getaways are dipping in some states including Illinois, AAA reported Monday.

About 2.1 million Illinoisans are predicted to take a jaunt of at least 50 miles from home over the holiday, a decrease from 2.11 million in 2025.

“We’re seeing a slight pullback in road trips compared to last year as some drivers adjust to higher fuel prices and overall costs, and are opting for shorter getaways or staying closer to home,” AAA spokesperson Molly Hart said in a statement.

Gas is hovering around an average $5.06 for a gallon of regular in the suburbs in contrast with $3.55 last year.

About 1.88 million Illinoisans will go on a road trip over the long weekend, down from 1.9 million in 2025, while 111,523 will fly, a 2.4% decrease year-over-year, according to AAA’s forecast.

However, 106,000 residents are escaping by bus, train or cruise ship, nearly 5% more than last Memorial Day.

President Donald Trump on Monday advocated for suspending the federal gas tax of 18.4 cents a gallon as the Iran war takes a toll on prices, but Congress must weigh in first.

Here are five more things to know about Memorial Day travel:

• Nationwide, nearly 45 million Americans will travel between May 21 and 25, setting a record, AAA said.

• The cheapest gas in neighboring states may be found in Missouri, where the average for a gallon of regular is $4.14. Next, in order of cheapness: Iowa at $4.20; Kentucky at $4.27; Indiana at $4.35; Wisconsin at $4.38; and Michigan at $4.72

• The worst traffic congestion is expected between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and on Monday afternoon. Clear roads are predicted for Sunday, traffic analysts INRIX reported.

• The average cost for a domestic flight booked in advance averaged $800, about 6% less than in 2025.

“Travel costs remain a mixed picture this year,” AAA Vice President of Travel Debbie Haas said in a statement. “Travelers who booked early may have secured lower airfares, but rising fuel costs are putting upward pressure on prices.”

• Renting a car? It’s about 1% cheaper this year, AAA booking data shows