Record-breaking travel numbers predicted for Memorial Day weekend across the Lowcountry

LADSON, S.C. (WCBD) –Memorial Day weekend has kicked off and experts are predicting a record-breaking travel weekend across the United States.

AAA predicts over 45 million people will travel 50 miles or more this weekend, surpassing last year’s travel numbers by over 1.4 million.

Airports are bracing for a busy weekend, with 3.6 million passengers expected, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 12-percent., but travelers at Charleston International Airport say it’s been smooth so far.

“We got up early this morning to travel, we intentionally booked our flights early but super smooth,” said Alexander Abbyad, a traveler from New Orleans.

The majority of Americans — 87%– are expected to take to the roads this weekend, with AAA projecting 38.4 million people will travel by car. South Carolina Highway Patrol says a little preparation before you head out can go a long way.

“The most common thing we see is people not being prepared. Having a cell phone charger, having cash for stopping to get food and water, it’s not rocket science. There’s no secret to doing it safely, you have to take the initiative to understand that driving is the most dangerous thing you’ll do on a daily basis,” said South Carolina Highway Patrol Officer Nicholas Pye.

South Carolina Highway Patrol will have extra enforcement out all weekend, especially around popular spots like beaches, lakes and airports.

“A lot of people are going to be traveling to the beaches, the lines are going to be long, I’m sure there’s a lot of people at the airport, so we have to understand we all want to get to the same places we all want to have fun, but the most important thing is arriving there alive,” said Pye.

South Carolina Highway Patrol will be out all weekend to help anyone in need on the roads