Prices lower for gas, hotels and more over Labor Day weekend, AAA says

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Labor Day holiday weekend is coming to a close, and AAA reports that Virginians saw lower prices across several travel methods.

AAA reported that domestic flights, hotels and car rentals for the 2025 Labor Day weekend were at a lower price than the year below.

According to the report, gas prices stayed low this summer, with the national average on Monday, Sept. 1 at $3.19, and with prices in Virginia falling even lower at just over $3.00. In 2024, the national average was $3.33 on Labor Day.

The cheapest gas prices in Central Virginia can be found in Powhatan, Prince George, Cumberland and Prince Edward counties, ranging between $2.84 and $2.95.

AAA said domestic flight costs were down 6% compared to last year. AAA booking data showed Seattle, Orlando and New York as the three most popular cities over Labor Day weekend.

Booking data also showed hotel rates are 11% lower and car rental costs are 3% cheaper in 2025 compared to 2024.

For those wrapping up their getaway Monday, transportation data and insights provider INRIX says the best time to drive on Labor Day is before 12 p.m. , and the worst travel time is between 1 and 4 p.m.

AAA said last Labor Day, they had more than 383,000 calls from stranded motorists. They're urging drivers to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of car trouble and accidents. That included making sure your vehicle is road-ready, and practicing road safety.