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The Busiest Days to Fly Around Labor Day 2024

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Labor Day may mark the unofficial end of summer in the U.S. — but it’s hardly the end of airport crowds. In fact, given record-breaking crowds already this year, there’s a good chance this Labor Day weekend could be busier than any prior Labor Day weekend.

Earlier this summer, U.S. airports set new passenger highs, according to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) data. July 7, the Sunday after the Fourth of July holiday , marked a new record of passengers screened at the airport on a single day when more than 3 million people passed through TSA checkpoints.

That wasn't the only busy day. The top ten busiest travel days in the agency’s history have all occurred this year since May 2024. If summer travel patterns are any indication, Labor Day will also be a huge day for air travel.

With that, airports are preparing for what might be the busiest Labor Day travel period yet. The TSA said it expects passenger volumes to be 8.5% higher than last year during this time.

If you’re traveling for the Labor Day long weekend, you should be prepared for crowds. That said, some days are set to be busier than others.

The best and worst days to fly Labor Day weekend

TSA checkpoint data suggests most people use Labor Day — which is observed on the first Monday of September — as a long weekend. They depart on Friday, bask in two full days of vacation and return home on Monday.

To avoid crowds, and likely save money, book Labor Day travel on days that aren’t the start and end of the weekend. Based on an average of the past four years, here were the most to least crowded days for the week surrounding Labor Day, ranked:

Friday before Labor Day (most crowded).

Labor Day Monday.

Sunday after.

Thursday before.

Friday after.

Monday after.

Thursday after.

Monday before.

Tuesday after.

Sunday before.

Saturday before.

Wednesday before.

Wednesday after.

Saturday after.

Tuesday before (least crowded).

When broken out by pre- and post-Labor Day travel, here are the three least crowded days to travel ranked from least to most crowded:

Pre-holiday:

Tuesday before (overall least crowded day pre-holiday).

Post-holiday:

Saturday after (overall least crowded day post-holiday).

During the seven days after and before Labor Day (including the holiday itself), the Friday before Labor Day has been the single busiest day to fly over each of the past three years.

As far as the period starting on Labor Day itself and spanning the subsequent seven days, Labor Day Monday has been the busiest day to fly over the past three years.

The smarter, cheaper Labor Day weekend itinerary

If you work a standard Monday-Friday workweek and have the holiday off, leaving Friday after work and returning on Labor Day seems logical. But following the same itinerary as everyone else means you’ll likely pay — both in airfares and navigating airport crowds . For lighter crowds (and perhaps better deals), try these travel days instead:

Fly on the Tuesday or Wednesday before: Let Labor Day weekend become closer to a week by jetting off earlier than the folks leaving Thursday or Friday, assuming you have enough vacation days to use (or can work remotely ). You’ll have more time away from home and be more relaxed without the big airport crowds.

Travel on Saturday: Crowds are light on Saturdays before and after the holiday. So, rather than rushing out of work on Friday afternoon to catch a flight, opt for the morning flight the next day.

That Saturday morning flight might also reduce your risk of delays , too. According to travel booking site Hopper’s Flight Disruption Outlook for Spring 2023, flights departing after 9 a.m. are twice as likely to be delayed than departures scheduled from 5-8 a.m.

Fly home the Sunday before: While most folks fly home on Labor Day Monday, you might get a head start by flying home on Sunday. Sure, you’ll have one less vacation day than folks following your same itinerary departing Monday, but that’s not a bad thing. By returning Sunday night, you’ll have a whole day to refresh and prepare for the week ahead by doing laundry, meal prepping or catching up on potential jetlag. Sometimes the nicest way to relax is by taking a vacation from your vacation.

Consider travel insurance

If you are forking out the big dollars to travel this Labor Day weekend, consider booking your trip with a card that has travel insurance or purchasing a supplementary policy from a third-party insurance provider, like Allianz or World Nomads .

Travel insurance can help you get money back for canceled or interrupted trips, or cover flight delays, lost luggage or emergency evacuation.

Read the policy, though, as many plans come to your rescue only if you experience a covered reason.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options

75,000 Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

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TSA readies for busiest Labor Day travel period on record, provides top travel tips to help airline passengers prepare

WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared to screen more than 17 million people during what is expected to be the busiest Labor Day travel period on record, which will run Thursday, August 29 through Wednesday, September 4. The peak travel day is projected to be August 30, when TSA expects to screen 2.86 million people.

Air travel volumes this summer are the highest the agency has seen in its history. The agency expects passenger volumes to be 8.5 percent higher than last year during this time, and has already screened 239.8 million people since Memorial Day weekend, which is an average of  2.7 million per day. The top ten busiest travel days in the agency’s history have all occurred this year since May 2024. The agency reached a new milestone on July 7, when Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) screened more than 3 million people in a single day.

“People are traveling more than ever this summer and TSA along with our airline and airport partners stand ready to close the busiest summer travel period on record during this upcoming Labor Day weekend,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “I commend our vigilant workforce, from our TSOs on the front lines at airport security checkpoints across the country to those behind the scenes, working hard to keep the transportation system secure—especially as we continue to roll out new checkpoint technology that improves security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience.”

TSA is staffed to meet its wait time standards, which are 10 minutes and under in TSA PreCheck® lanes and 30 minutes and under in standard screening lanes. With this increase in travel volumes, TSA recommends airline passengers travel with ease by enrolling in the TSA PreCheck Trusted Traveler Program , where members do not need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, food items, and light jackets at the checkpoint. TSA PreCheck members are reminded to make sure their Known Traveler Number (KTN) is in their airline reservation so it appears on their boarding pass.

REAL ID will go into effect in less than nine months, starting May 7, 2025. Airline passengers will soon need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification when flying. If the driver’s license is not REAL ID-compliant, they must have another form of acceptable identification, such as a U.S. passport. REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards have a small star in the upper right corner indicating they meet federal regulations that establish minimum security standards.

Check out TSA’s top travel tips for an efficient and successful trip through security.

The best and worst days to fly for Labor Day weekend, according to experts

Summer travel season might be ending soon, but one of its busiest weekends is right around the corner.

Labor Day weekend is expected to be one of the busiest times to travel.

The Fourth of July holiday weekend saw a record-breaking number of travelers, with more than 3 million people passing through airport security, and the September holiday is predicted to see similar numbers.

Traveling on the not-so-popular days can save time, money, stress and allow for a smoother time at the airport.

A new NerdWallet analysis found the best and worst days to fly for Labor Day weekend by looking at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) data.

The Friday before Labor Day has been the single busiest day for air travel over the past three years during the seven-day time period before and after Labor Day, including the holiday.

For the seven-day period starting on Labor Day and spanning the subsequent days, Labor Day Monday has been the busiest day over the past three years.

Here are the best and worst days to travel, based on an average of data from the past four years:

• Tuesday before (overall least crowded day pre-holiday)
• Wednesday before
• Saturday before
• Saturday after (overall least crowded day post-holiday)
• Wednesday after
• Tuesday after
• Fly out on the Tuesday or Wednesday before Labor Day
• Travel on Saturday morning rather than Friday afternoon
• Fly home on Sunday, not Labor Day Monday
• Friday before Labor Day (most crowded)
• Labor Day Monday
• Sunday after
• Thursday before
• Friday after
• Monday after
• Thursday after
• Monday before
• Sunday before
• Saturday after
• Tuesday before (least crowded)

Labor Day traffic and travel: Best and worst times to drive and fly

The TSA anticipates Aug. 30 will be its peak travel day of Labor Day weekend.

Millions of Americans are gearing up to head to the airport or hit the highway for the last long weekend of summer.

Here's what to know about Labor Day weekend travel:

More than 17 million people are forecast to be screened at U.S. airports from Thursday, Aug. 29, to Wednesday, Sept. 4 -- an 8.5% increase from last year, the Transportation Security Administration said.

The TSA anticipates Friday, Aug. 30, will be its busiest day with 2.86 million travelers expected.

The TSA's top 10 busiest travel days ever have all occurred since May.

MORE: Labor Day 2024: Shop early deals on TVs from Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy and more

United Airlines expects this year will be its busiest Labor Day weekend on record, with over 2.9 million passengers poised to fly between Thursday, Aug. 29, and Tuesday, Sept. 3 -- up 3% from last year. United predicts Aug. 30 will be its busiest day.

American Airlines predicts this year will be its largest Labor Day operations ever, with over 3.8 million customers anticipated from Aug. 29 to Sept. 3 -- up 14% from last year. American says its busiest travel days will be Aug. 29 and Aug. 30.

For Southwest Airlines, Aug. 30 and Sept. 2 are forecast to be peak travel days.

The busiest airports are anticipated to be Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Chicago O'Hare International Airport and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, according to Hopper.

The most searched domestic destinations for Labor Day are New York City, Seattle and Los Angeles, according to Hopper.

Road travel

If you’re hitting the road on Thursday, Aug. 29, the worst time to drive is from 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., according to analytics company INRIX.

On Friday, Aug. 30, the worst travel time is from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. On Monday, Sept. 2, the busiest time on the roads will be from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., INRIX said.

AAA said drivers should expect to pay less for gas this year. The national average for gas during Labor Day weekend 2023 was $3.81; this year, prices are expected to be around $3.50.

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The Best—and Worst—Times to Travel Over Labor Day Weekend

Time your trip to avoid traffic.

When Is Labor Day?

• Travel Times to Avoid
• How to Beat the Crowds

Svetlana-Cherruty / Getty Images

Labor Day weekend is almost here, and whether you’re staying home to get some much-needed rest or traveling across state lines, the streets will be filled with bumper-to-bumper traffic. Knowing the exact times when traffic will peak is an important part of planning your holiday weekend, but don’t worry—we’ve gathered the best and worst times to travel over Labor Day weekend, so you don’t have to. Follow our advice and save yourself from the gridlock this weekend.

This year, Labor Day 2024 will take place on Monday, September 2. The federal holiday was designed to celebrate workers across the country and their contributions to the American economy, and as a result, most working people are granted a three-day weekend. The holiday is hugely popular, with many people getting on the road and treating their weekend as a mini-vacation—but the journey can be grueling.

The Best and Worst Times to Travel During Labor Day Weekend

If you’re traveling by air, avoid scheduling flights for Friday, August 30, especially during the midmorning and midafternoon (the busiest time for air travel). The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates August 30th will be its busiest day, with an estimated 2.86 million travelers expected to fly. Additionally, multiple airlines—including United Airlines and American Airlines—are expecting to host a record-breaking number of travelers this year.

For road travelers, the worst time to drive on Thursday, August 29 is between 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., with rush hour traffic at its peak during the midafternoon. On Friday, August 30, the worst time to hit the road is between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. On Monday, September 2, the roads will be packed from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

How to Beat the Crowd Ahead of Labor Day

If you're traveling, it's likely you'll be delayed by large crowds at some point this Labor Day weekend, but by knowing what to expect and planning ahead, you can be better prepared. Leaving an hour or two early can help you avoid peak congestion, especially on Labor Day. If you’re traveling by plane , arrive at the airport several hours in advance to give yourself enough time to check in, go through security, and find your gate. Remember: this isn’t your average get-to-the-airport-an-hour-before-the-flight experience.

Additionally, now is the time to optimize your TSA pre-check and E-ZPass to speed through as quickly as possible. The faster you make it through routine processes, the quicker you’ll get to your destination. Don’t forget to drive safely, hydrate often, and practice the virtue of patience .

Related Articles

The Best And Worst Days To Fly For Labor Day Weekend

As the unofficial end of summer approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up for Labor Day air travel in record numbers. Here's what to know.

Faith Katunga • Aug 23, 2024

As the unofficial end of summer approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up for Labor Day travel in 2024. With air travel expected to reach near-record levels, knowing the best and worst days to fly can make a difference in your travel experience. Here’s what you need to know to navigate the skies during this busy holiday weekend.

According to a recent NerdWallet analysis , the Friday before Labor Day (August 30, 2024) will be the single busiest day for air travel during the holiday period. This continues a trend observed over the past three years, making it crucial for travelers to plan accordingly. The second busiest day is expected to be Labor Day itself (Monday, September 2, 2024), particularly for return flights. Airports are likely to be congested, and flights may be more prone to delays on these peak days.

Which Days Of Labor Day Weekend Are Best For Flying

Stay flexible when you plan your Labor Day weekend getaway . If possible, adjust your travel dates to avoid the busiest days. And if you must fly on peak days, arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare and pack your patience along with your luggage.

By understanding the ebb and flow of Labor Day air travel patterns, you can make informed decisions that lead to a more enjoyable start (or end) to your holiday weekend. For those with flexible schedules, the data suggests some clear winners for less crowded travel days:

• Tuesday, 27 August: This day is predicted to be the least crowded pre-holiday travel day.
• Wednesday, 28 August: Another good option for departures with lower crowds.
• Saturday, 7 September : This might be the least busy post-holiday travel day for those extending their trip.

While Labor Day is an important travel period, it’s worth noting that Tuesday and Wednesday are generally the cheapest days to fly for domestic travel throughout the year. Conversely, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday tend to be the most expensive and busiest.

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Traveling this Labor Day weekend? Here's what to expect at the airport

The unofficial end of summer is fast approaching, with Labor Day on the immediate horizon.

An estimated 12.6 million people are expected to hit U.S. airports this weekend, according to data from Hopper, an online travel agency and app that tracks the price of airfare, car rentals and hotel rooms.

When it comes to flights, Hopper pegs the average domestic Labor Day weekend airfare at $278 round-trip, which is a 23% increase over last year's numbers. However, it's certainly not a large enough jump to derail the plans of millions ready for one more summer getaway.

The Big Three U.S. airlines — American Airlines , Delta Air Lines and United Airlines — say they are preparing to fly between 2.5 million and 2.9 million passengers each. This means that U.S. airports and airlines will likely see somewhere between 9 and 12 million passengers.

If you are one of those millions packing your bags for vacation, here's what you can expect throughout the holiday travel weekend ... along with some tips for navigating any potential chaos at the country's busiest airports.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Busiest days for air travel: Sept. 1, 2 and 5

Nearly 13 million passengers are scheduled to fly from U.S. airports starting Thursday, Sept. 1, through Monday, Sept. 5; this is an average of 2.5 million travelers per day this weekend, based on Hopper's Labor Day 2022 Travel Guide .

As you might suspect, Hopper expects the Thursday and Friday before Labor Day, along with Labor Day itself, to be the busiest travel days of the weekend, as travelers head to and return from their destinations.

However, some airports also expect to see vacationers extending their trips beyond the typical four- or three-day weekend; many may be departing for extended celebrations beginning as early as Wednesday, Aug. 31, and not returning until Tuesday, Sept. 6, perhaps due to an increase in remote working and flexible travel schedules.

The three busiest airports this year are expected to be Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Denver International Airport (DEN) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX); this is per a second Labor Day travel report compiled by Hopper that examines airports specifically.

If you are one of the 1.6 million-plus passengers expected to travel through ATL from Sept. 1 to 6, airport officials say to arrive at least two hours early, particularly on Friday.

"Airport projections indicate Friday, Sept. 2 as the busiest day, with a little more than 300,000 passengers expected in ATL," an airport spokesperson said via email.

Not to mention, the usual tips and tricks to get through security faster — such as using Clear — don't always have the same time-saving impact in Atlanta as they do in other airports, likely because of a higher rate of use among travelers there.

In an increase from last year, LAX expects to see an estimated 456,000 passengers — up from 398,000 passengers last year — depart this upcoming Thursday through Monday. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) expects slightly more (481,000) arriving and departing passengers Wednesday through Tuesday.

"That's about 17% higher than the same period last year and 16% lower than 2019," per a PHL spokesperson. "The peak travel days for the Labor Day holiday weekend will be Thursday, Friday and Monday."

The Denver airport is projecting Thursday, Friday and Monday as the busiest days of the holiday travel period, matching what Hopper shows for national trends.

The airport anticipates nearly 67,000 passengers entering Transportation Security Administration checkpoints at DEN on Sept. 1, according to an airport spokesperson.

American anticipates 2.5 customers from Sept. 1 to 5 while United expects 2.6 million passengers from Sept. 1 to 6.

Although American's holiday flight schedule is similar to that of 2021 — with more than 26,400 scheduled flights for an average of nearly 5,300 daily departures — United has adjusted its schedule to accommodate a projected 20% increase in customers.

"During the Labor Day period, we anticipate approximately 2.6 million customers will travel with United," a spokesperson for the Chicago-based airline said. "This is nearly the same volume we had in 2019 and more than a 20% increase from last year, where ~2.1 million customers traveled with us during the same period [Sept. 1-6]."

United is the only one of the three largest U.S. airlines anticipating Labor Day volume mirroring pre-pandemic numbers.

Although Delta expects more Labor Day weekend flyers — between 2.8 and 2.9 million — than the other major airlines, these numbers don't quite meet Delta's pre-pandemic levels.

"Over the holiday weekend, Delta will operate over 25,000 flights," a Delta spokesperson shared via email. "For reference, Delta flew 3.1 million customers in 2019 and 2.5 million in 2021 over the same period of time."

Related: 7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear

Where are people going for Labor Day weekend?

So where are all these people heading?

Among domestic destinations, the top five most booked locations via Hopper were Las Vegas, Denver, Atlanta, Miami and Los Angeles.

Internationally, users are favoring San Juan, Puerto Rico, as the top-booked destination (though, of course, it isn't exactly international for U.S. travelers). Multiple cities in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Colombia are popular for travel this weekend, too.

"Over Labor Day weekend international travel will account for about 39% of travel over the holiday weekend, up 7 percentage points compared to last year in 2021," according to Hopper. This appears to support the expectations of airports, as both PHL and LAX noted an uptick among travelers opting to leave the country for the weekend.

"In addition to flying to domestic vacation locations (as they did in 2021), Philidelphia's passengers have demonstrated a strong desire to travel to international destinations in Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean this summer," an airport spokesperson said. International flight traffic at LAX has increased substantially as well.

"Available seats to many international destinations this weekend are two to three times higher than the same time last year, so it looks like a lot of people are taking one last summer trip overseas," an LAX spokesperson said.

Related: These are the world's busiest airports

Tips for staying sane during busy travel days

The combination of holiday weekends and full planes can bring little recourse if flight delays and cancellations start to pile up.

Before you even head to the airport, we suggest having a sense of alternate departing flights that day, just in case your flight is significantly delayed or canceled .

Along the same lines, make sure to download your airline's mobile app, many of which provide real-time flight updates. This will allow you to track your flight, get notified of flight changes and, in some cases, even chat with a representative regarding flight issues.

If you cannot reach an agent via the app or phone, follow the airline on social media and direct message them on Twitter or Instagram , where you might get a quicker response.

Being one of the first people to reach customer service can be essential when seats are in limited supply.

Additionally, regardless of which airport you're traveling through this weekend, we suggest arriving early to allow extra time for getting through security. At worst, you end up with more time in the lounge or at the gate.

As always, it helps to be enrolled in programs like TSA PreCheck and Clear, which can help you get through security faster.

Related: How to get into airport lounges

Bottom line

Labor Day weekend will be another test for airlines before they head into the holiday travel season. Operational meltdowns were present on some busy travel weekends this summer, while others went mostly as planned.

"Compared to some of the chaos we saw earlier this summer, airlines have certainly turned in a better performance as the summer draws to a close," TPG senior aviation reporter Ethan Klapper said.

We are crossing our fingers for a busy — but smooth — holiday travel weekend.

Read more: Your flight is canceled or delayed – here's what you should do next

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The Busiest Travel Days for Labor Day Weekend — and Where Travelers Are Headed

Time to start planning...

Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images

While summer vacations may still be underway, travelers planning for a Labor Day Weekend end of the season may want to take new data into account. The holiday weekend, which traditionally marks the end of the summer travel season, will see travelers explore popular travel hotspots both in the United States and around the world. Friday, Sept. 1 and Monday, Sept. 4 will be the busiest days for airport traffic as flyers jet to and from their destinations around the world, according to new data from Chase Travel shared with Travel + Leisure this week.

When it comes to popular domestic destinations, Chase found that travelers were mostly looking to big cities including:

• New York, New York
• San Francisco, California
• Los Angeles, California
• Seattle, Washington
• Chicago, Illinois
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Denver, Colorado
• Washington, DC
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Diego, California

While international destinations spanning from Europe to Asia included:

• London, United Kingdom
• Rome, Italy
• Tokyo, Japan
• Paris, France
• Athens, Greece
• Cancun, Mexico
• Calgary, Canada
• Seoul, South Korea
• Barcelona, Spain
• Dublin, Ireland

While many of the cities listed in the rankings are already popular destinations, the data also provides insights on which cities have surged in popularity from last year based on the rise in bookings. For example, Houston , Spokane, and Kansas City are some of the top domestic rising destinations, where Tokyo , Geneva, and Montreal are some of the top rising international destinations.  These predictions also align with data from the TSA in 2022 , that reveals the agency screened 8.7 million passengers over Labor Day Weekend, and the Friday of the weekend was the busiest with 2.4 million passengers screened. 

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Top Labor Day Travel Trends of 2024

Aaa booking data shows alaska cruises, european cities, and tourist attractions are most popular.

WASHINGTON, DC (Aug. 19, 2024) – This year’s record-breaking , blockbuster summer travel season comes to a close with many Americans exploring Alaska by cruise. According to AAA booking data, Seattle is the number one Labor Day weekend* destination, up nearly 30% from last year when it also topped the list. Anchorage and Juneau are also on the top ten list of Labor Day destinations.  

“This is the time of year to go on an Alaska cruise,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “There are fewer crowds compared to earlier in the summer, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of fall colors! It’s no surprise Alaska cruises are sold out this Labor Day weekend.”  

AAA travel experts say if you’re interested in going on an Alaska cruise next summer, the time to book is now to lock in the best rate and ensure you get the type of cabin you want.   

According to AAA booking data, o verall domestic travel over Labor Day weekend is up 9% compared to last year , while the cost to travel domestically is down 2%. Other top Labor Day destinations include Orlando, New York, Boston, Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, and San Francisco. For many families, Labor Day is the last hurrah before school begins. To make the most of those trips, AAA recommends identifying must-see sights and creating a flexible itinerary ahead of time. “ Trip Canvas is a great free resource for travelers in the planning phase,” Twidale said. “You can find free things to do in Denver or the best museums in New York City .”  

Travelers taking road trips should expect to pay less for gas compared to last year. The national average over Labor Day weekend in 2023 was $3.81. In recent weeks, gas prices have remained steady, hovering around $3.50. Despite the popularity of summer road trips, overall gas demand is down as daily driving habits have changed post-pandemic, preventing pump prices from spiking. Hurricanes hitting the Gulf and affecting regional refineries could cause gas prices to go up as the peak of the season approaches in September. For drivers taking road trips in their electric vehicles, AAA now offers information on the cost of Level 2 commercial EV charging and updates that data weekly .   

International travel over Labor Day weekend is down 4% compared to last year, per AAA booking numbers , while the cost to travel internationally is up 11%. Most of those travelers are heading to Europe. Eight out of the top ten international destinations booked through AAA are European cities. Travelers renting a car abroad should consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP), which translates their driver’s license information into 10 languages. Some countries – including Italy and Spain – require it. AAA is the only entity in the U.S. authorized by the State Department to issue an IDP.   

  Top Labor Day Destinations  

  Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car over Labor Day Weekend   

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says car travelers should avoid the afternoon and early evening hours of Thursday and Friday, as those times will be the most congested. Drivers should hit the road in the morning unless they’re leaving on Saturday when the best time to travel by car is in the afternoon. Travelers returning on Sunday and on Labor Day should leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic in the afternoon.    

“Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day.”  

Source: INRIX  

*Labor Day Weekend   

AAA looked at booking data for Thursday, August 29 through Monday, September 2, and compared those numbers with booking data for that same five-day period in 2023.   

About AAA   

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services – all to enhance the life journey of our 64+ million members across North America, including over 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or become a member, visit AAA.com.  

  About INRIX  

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.   

clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

Traveling for Labor Day? Expect summer’s chaos to continue.

Flying and driving are expected to be hectic, but last-minute planners can still find deals

Millions of Americans are expected to pack highways and airports this week for Labor Day weekend, capping off a chaotic summer for travel .

Bookings for domestic travel — including flights, cars, cruises, hotels and tours — are up 22 percent over Labor Day weekend in 2021, according to AAA spokesperson Ellen Edmonds. International bookings are up 104 percent as coronavirus restrictions continue to ease . Travel-booking app Hopper expects more than 12.7 million people to fly from U.S. airports between Thursday and Monday, including 1.8 million going abroad.

With airlines still plagued by staffing issues and extreme weather , travel experts said the most important move is to build flexibility into your plans. And for last-minute vacations, there are still deals to be found.

Airline labor problems aren’t going away

Here’s what to know if you’re traveling or hoping to get away this Labor Day weekend.

Prepare for delays in Atlanta, Denver and L.A.

An average of 2.6 million passengers are expected to depart from U.S. airports each day of Labor Day weekend, with peak air travel occurring on Friday, according to Hopper’s forecast .

“We’re just seeing extremely high levels of demand,” said Andrew Heritage, an economist at Hopper. “But also, demand has come back faster than capacity has — airlines have brought capacity about to 95 percent of what they were pre-pandemic, but they’re not quite back to pre-pandemic levels.”

The company predicts the busiest airports will be Atlanta, Denver and Los Angeles, and warns passengers moving through those hubs to be prepared for delays. The worst airports for flight disruptions are expected to be Chicago-Midway, Baltimore and Dallas’s Love Field — in all three airports, more than a third of flights in August were delayed, according to Hopper.

Get to the airport early to be as “adaptable” as possible this weekend, Heritage said. For those who have not bought a ticket yet, he recommended flying on Saturday or Sunday, and using tools like Hopper’s Flight Disruption Guarantee , which allows for instant free rebooking in case of a flight disruption.

While TSA data shows the number of people passing through security checkpoints has fallen since June and July, the agency expects an uptick over Labor Day weekend, according to spokesperson Lisa Farbstein.

“We continue to be fully staffed to handle travel volume,” Farbstein said in an email. “But make no mistake, it will be busy at airports nationwide for holiday travel.”

How can bad weather ruin your flight? Let us count the ways.

Hit the road early

Edmonds said AAA expects a rush of travelers on Thursday and Friday, and recommended leaving early in the morning for both road trips and flights.

Gas remains significantly more expensive than a year ago, but nationwide average prices have fallen more than a dollar since June, according to AAA . The national average hovered around $3.85 per gallon this week. It’s cheapest to refill your tank in the Southeast , especially Arkansas, Mississippi and Georgia.

How much gas money it takes to drive across America

Rental cars are also seeing a dip, with fall prices expected to be 21 percent cheaper domestically and 31 percent cheaper internationally compared with summer, according to Matt Clarke, vice president of marketing at Kayak North America.

Hot and dry, except the South

Temperatures are expected to be above average for most of the country — except for Texas — over Labor Day weekend, according to the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center . The chance of precipitation is higher than normal in Southern California and the South, especially Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi, while northern states are less likely than usual to see rain.

Hurricane season on the East Coast has been historically quiet thus far , but there is a chance that could change over Labor Day weekend, according to AccuWeather . Meteorologists are monitoring several systems, one of which has a small chance of threatening the Gulf Coast over the weekend, AccuWeather reported, which could disrupt travel and gas supplies.

Covid remains a threat

Coronavirus cases in the United States have gradually fallen in August, but vaccine immunity is wearing off and the virus is evolving to become more transmissible, so testing and masking remain important for travel.

You should still test for travel, health experts say

Masking is not required on public transit or planes, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends continuing to do so. If you test positive, you should avoid travel until you exit isolation , according to the CDC. If you have cleared isolation but it has been less than 10 days since you tested positive, or if you have been exposed to someone with covid, you’re still recommended to wear a high-quality mask or travel in a private vehicle.

And even though the United States no longer requires a negative test result to enter the country, most noncitizens must show proof of vaccination. The CDC offers a tool on its website to determine the requirements for people entering the United States, and Kayak maintains a database of travel restrictions in foreign countries.

The federal government program that provides free at-home coronavirus tests will be suspended on Friday because of a lack of funding, according to its website . Tests are still available for reimbursement through insurance companies or at public testing sites .

Last-minute destinations

Even if you haven’t booked a trip yet, there still may be deals out there, Heritage said. Plane tickets to Atlanta and Orlando remain below $250 round-trip, and if you are willing to drive, hotels in Kissimmee, Fla., and Tempe, Ariz., have affordable rates, according to Heritage.

You could also consider a “ staycation ,” as some hotels offer special last-minute rates to local guests based on geolocation, according to Hopper. Major cities like New York and Las Vegas may also have deals on hotel rooms close to the check-in date.

The cheapest domestic destinations according to Kayak are Myrtle Beach, S.C.; Las Vegas and Orlando, Clarke said. Internationally, Montreal , Toronto and Guadalajara, Mexico, are good places to look for last-minute deals.

A hater's guide to Las Vegas

Overall, travel prices have eased slightly since the peak of a historically expensive summer season, but you’ll still have sticker shock compared to last year and before the pandemic. Average domestic airfare this Labor Day weekend is $278, 23 percent higher than 2021 and 20 percent higher than pre-pandemic in 2019, Heritage said.

“If people are looking, if they haven’t made plans yet and they want to take a flight, maybe leaving on Saturday or Sunday and if they can, coming back on Tuesday or Wednesday, would avoid the crowds but also probably save some money as well,” Heritage said.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

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The best REI Labor Day deals to shop right now

REI is hosting its Labor Day Sale and Clearance event until the end of today, making it a great time to save money on camping equipment, hiking essentials, running gear and more. Not only will there be deals across full-priced items, but there will also be additional sales, including up to 50% off clearance products. REI Co-op members will also have exclusive access to specific deals during the Labor Day sale . 

I frequently cover sales like Black Friday , Cyber Monday and Prime Day for NBC Select, so I know how to identify Labor Day deals that are actually worth buying . Below, I gathered the best REI Labor Day deals to shop now. I’ll also update this list of deals throughout the sale.

SKIP AHEAD   Best REI Labor Day deals | Best REI Labor Day tech deals | Best REI Labor Day footwear deals | Best REI Labor Day camping deals | Best REI Labor Day travel deals | Best REI Labor Day fitness equipment deals | More REI sales | Why trust NBC Select?

Selected. Our top picks

select Shop Traeger, GE and Ryobi products at their lowest prices during Home Depot’s Labor Day Sale

Best rei labor day deals in 2024.

Below, I rounded up the best sales to shop during REI’s Labor Day sale. The following products are either based on our previous coverage, NBC Select editor favorites or are highly rated at REI.

The best REI Labor Day tech deals

Garmin forerunner 265.

The Garmin Forerunner watches are some of our favorite fitness trackers . This lightweight model has a touch-screen display that shows data on your health, including sleep, recovery and training. It also offers personalized daily suggested workouts and has over 30 built-in activity profiles, including running, cycling and open-water swimming. The watch, which connects to Android and Apple products, has up to 13 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode — this watch can even send a message with your live location to emergency contacts if needed.   

JBL Flip 6 Speaker

This Bluetooth speaker is waterproof and dustproof, making it a great portable speaker to take outdoors or enjoy from the comfort of your home. It has up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge and can connect up to two smartphones or devices simultaneously.

BioLite Charge 40 PD Power Bank

Don’t risk the possibility of your phone, tablet or other electronic devices dying; instead, carry this portable and durable power bank that can quickly charge multiple devices simultaneously. It can do so because it has three ports — two USB-A options and one USB-C port. BioLite has two additional sizes of this portable charger (20 and 80 PD), but this option can charge roughly 2.5 smartphones with a full battery. 

The best REI Labor Day footwear deals

Hoka speedgoat 5 women's trail-running shoes .

Hoka Speedgoat 5 Women's Trail-Running Shoes

These trail running shoes from Hoka find the right balance between being lightweight, comfortable and having enough security for outdoor runs. They have Hoka’s Vibram megagrip traction for a more secure grip, a meta-rocker for a smooth ride despite the trail’s terrain and a protective toe cap to keep your feet safe from rocks and other debris you may encounter during the run, according to the brand.

Nike Women’s Vomero 17 Road-Running Shoes

Reviewers say these women’s running shoes are great for tempo runs, recovery miles, training, daily runs and leisurely walks thanks to the plush interior which protects their joints, is responsive to movements and increases overall comfort. It has cushioned insoles and stacked foam that balances the foot, creates a softer stride and smooths heel-to-toe transitions. It also has padded tongues and collars to improve comfortability, according to the brand.

On Men's Cloudflyer 4 Road-Running Shoes  

On Men's Cloudflyer 4 Road-Running Shoes

The Cloudflyer 4 men’s running shoes are versatile. ou can wear them during short and long runs, road running, training and more. The brand’s dual-density CloudTec midsoles provide support and cushioning, especially on the heel. At the same time, On’s Helion superfoam focuses on the forefoot area, so when combined, you have softer landings and more responsive, propelling takeoffs, according to the brand. 

La Sportiva Men’s Wildcat Trail-Running Shoes

La Sportiva Wildcat Trail-Running Shoes - Men's

If you’re looking for a trail running shoe with stability and plenty of cushioning, consider this pair from La Sportiva. The shoe has a breathable and washable interior, dual-density midsoles, a moisture-wicking lining and, most importantly, a slanted lug pattern that will reduce impact and increase traction on all trails, according to the brand.  

Altra Women’s Timp 5 Trail-Running Shoes

These trail running shoes have traction suitable for wet and dry surfaces thanks to their rugged rubber outsole. Its interior has a wide toe box , and the midsole is lightweight and gives a slight bounce, according to the brand. The sneakers are also available in men’s sizes , and the brand recommends sizing them up by half a size for more room or if you are between sizes.

The best REI Labor Day camping deals

Rumpl nanoloft puffy travel blanket.

This blanket is great for travel and camping because it’s easily portable and packable — all you have to do is roll it into its bag (no bigger than a water bottle) and clip it onto your backpack or other camping gear. The water-repellent blanket is comfortable and warm, and you can even wear it hands-free as you walk around or sleep, according to the brand behind our NBC Select Travel Awards Winner . 

REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag

Available in two sizes, this hooded sleeping bag will keep you warm throughout the night with its quilt construction (which prevents cold spots and stabilizes insulation) and draft collar (which retains heat). According to REI, you can also use this water-repellent camping essential as a blanket when you’re not sleeping or simply roll it into its accompanying sack to save space on your campsite.

REI Co-op Skyward 6 Tent

Skyward 6 Tent

This 6-person tent is excellent for multiple campers or if you’re simply looking to maximize space and comfort. The interior of the cabin-shaped tent allows individuals up to 6’3” to comfortably stand up straight and has multiple areas for convenient storage. The exterior is water-repellent and the tent has bugproof mesh panels and cap-style fly mesh covers for ventilation, according to REI.

The best REI Labor Day travel deals

Thule compression packing cube set.

Compression packing cubes are a travel essential because, like this duo from Thule, they maximize packing space by reducing excess air from the cube. The cubes open up to make packing easy, and when you’ve compressed them, they have a fabric that allows you to see what’s inside without being too obvious, according to the brand. Both the small and medium compression cubes can be used during multiple trips because they have a nylon exterior, which is durable and water-repellent. 

REI Co-op Ruckpack 18 Recycled Daypack

This 18-liter travel backpack makes trekking around a more comfortable and convenient experience. It has a water-repellent exterior, padded shoulder straps, easy-access side panels and attachments that can be removed or tucked away when not used. It also gives you peace of mind with features, including a sternum-strap buckle that doubles as a survival whistle and zippers that can be locked for safekeeping (if you purchase a lock separately.) 

Nemo Double Haul 55 L Convertible Duffel and Tote

This water- and stain-resistant bag can become a duffel , tote or backpack, depending on how you choose to carry it. It has stiffened trusses to hold its structure regardless of how you use it, and it has a spacious interior with internal and external compartments for easy organization. It also comes with a carrying case that can double as a packing cube, according to the brand.

The best REI Labor Day fitness equipment deals

Hydro flask wide-mouth vacuum water bottle with flex straw cap.

Hydroflask Wide-Mouth Water Bottle with Straw Cap

After trying multiple alternatives, this reusable water bottle remains my favorite and continues to be the only one I use. After filling it with ice water, my drink stays cold and chilled for more than a day — sometimes even two. I can throw it in my work bag because this stainless steel bottle doesn’t leak or spill, and when I’m ready to use it, I can do so easily because of the straw cap. The NBC Select Wellness Award winner comes either with the standard lid or straw cap — you can easily interchange them based on your preference.

Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat

This yoga mat has high-density foam cushioning that doesn’t absorb moisture as you sweat throughout your practice. If you do, you don’t have to worry because it has a slip-resistant surface that doesn’t get sticky — it’s also slip-resistant on the bottom to prevent it from moving.  If your mat has a problem, it is under a lifetime guarantee with Manduka. 

REI Co-op Swiftland 5 Hydration Vest

For runners, hikers and everyone outside for long periods, stay hydrated as you participate in activities with this hydration vest. The machine washable vest (which was runner-tested by REI) has a 1.5-liter reservoir with a valve that self-seals and twists on and off to prevent leaks when you’re not drinking from it, according to the brand. It also has an adjustable snug fit to prevent it from moving around and has pockets for storage to carry essentials as you work out.

Thule T2 Pro XTR 2-Bike Hitch Rack

Carry up to four bikes with this rack that is compatible with most bikes up to 60 pounds each, according to the brand. Reviewers say they love how easy it is to attach to the back of their cars since it requires no tools and has integrated wheels to get the rack on and off. When you don’t need to use the bike rack, it can fold up and tilt away so you can access your trunk, according to Thule.

More sales from REI’s Labor Day Sale and Clearance Event 2024

All of the products listed below are at least 20% off and have a 4-star rating or higher at REI.

Best footwear and apparel sales

• Up to 30% off Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
• Up to 30% off REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie
• Up to 25% off On Cloudsurfer Road-running shoes
• Up to 25% off Saucony Tempus Road-running shoes
• Up to 25% off Salomon Speedcross 6 Trail-running shoes
• Up to 25% off Keen Zionic Waterproof Hiking Shoes
• Up to 25% off Targhee IV Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
• Up to 25% off Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks
• Up to 25% off Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket
• Up to 25% off REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket

Best camping sales

• Up to 46% off Black Diamond Zip Lantern
• Up to 40% off The North Face Wawona 4 Tent
• Up to 40% off Helinox Chair Zero
• Up to 40% off Eureka Ignite 2-Burner Camp Stove
• Up to 30% off Caddis Rapid Shelter
• Up to 25% off Stanley 14-Piece Prep & Cook Set
• Up to 25% off Eno TechNest Hammock
• Up to 25% off Hest Foamy Sleeping Pad
• Up to 25% off Jetboil Flash Cooking System
• Up to 25% off Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp
• Up to 25% off Sol Flat Pack Collapsible Sink

Best travel sales

• Up to 29% off Gregory Quad Pro Hardcase Wheeled Luggage
• Up to 28% off Gregory Alpaca 60 Duffle
• Up to 25% off Osprey Sirrus 24 Pack
• Up to 25% off Sherpani Tote Pack
• Up to 25% off Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 Travel Pack
• Up to 25% off Humangear GoToob+ Large Squeeze Bottle Pack
• Up to 20% off Thule Force XL L Roof Box

Best fitness equipment

• Up to 49% off JBL Tune Flex Earbuds
• Up to 40% off REI Co-op Multi Towel Lite
• Up to 25% off Nathan Adjustable Fit Zipster 2.0 Running Belt
• Up to 20% off Yeti Rambler Vacuum Bottle with Chug Cap
• Up to 20% off Co-op DRT 1.1 Mountain Bike
• Up to 20% off Co-op Cycles Rev 16 Kids’ Bike

select Our editors parsed through 100s of Labor Day deals on Amazon — these are the best ones

How i found the best labor day sales at rei.

All of my recommendations above are based on NBC Select’s previous coverage and reporting. I also included products the NBC Select staff tested, including Wellness Award and Travel Award winners.  All the products I recommend are at least 20% off, as well as highly rated items with at least a 4.0-star average rating from hundreds of reviews.

Why trust NBC Select?

I’m an associate reporter for NBC Select who covers beauty and wellness and special sale events like Amazon Prime Day, Target Circle Week and Black Friday. Many of the sales I cover include fitness equipment, wellness items, apparel and more.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Bianca Alvarez is an associate reporter at NBC Select.

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Hurricane tracker, severe weather, radar & maps, news & features, winter center, news / weather news, eerie fog shrouds moscow landmarks, cancels hundreds of flights.

Halloween may be in the rearview mirror, but a ghostly scene unfolded in Russia as thick fog covered the city, causing some of the worst disruptions to air travel in a decade.

By Adam Douty , AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Published Nov 2, 2021 10:00 AM PDT | Updated Nov 4, 2021 3:24 AM PDT

Thick fog blanketed Moscow from late Monday into Wednesday morning, causing hundreds of flights to be canceled in one of the biggest travel disruptions to impact the Russian capital in a decade.

More than 200 flights were canceled or delayed at Moscow’s major airports on Tuesday, according to Bloomberg . The delays appeared to be the most since an ice storm blanketed the city in December 2010, although no statistics on disruptions are available, said a spokeswoman for Russia's federal air transport agency Rosaviatsia.

On Wednesday, the return of fog led to another 60 flight cancellations or delays .

Visibility was quickly reduced Monday evening when the fog first settled across the city. Observations from across the city showed that the visibility fell to near zero for as much as 14 consecutive hours. At several locations, temperatures fell below freezing overnight, which may have also led to ice forming on some surfaces.

City landmarks such as St. Basil's Cathedral were almost ghostly in appearance as the dense fog engulfed Moscow's famous Red Square.

“An area of high pressure across the region produced a setup favorable for fog to develop,” said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tyler Roys. “This included a clear sky and light winds which allowed for the temperature to fall to the dew point.”

When the temperatures fall to the dew point , fog can form as moisture in the air condenses into small water droplets that are suspended in the air.

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When conditions allow, fog can become very dense and reduce the visibility to a few hundred feet, or even less in some situations.

While the fog cleared a little during the afternoon on Tuesday, it became dense once again Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning. While not as dense as on Tuesday, it still led to delays across the city.

Fog cloaks the city of Moscow in this time-lapse on Nov. 2, 2021 (Earthcam)

By late on Wednesday morning, the fog had lifted and visibility improved, though a layer of clouds remained just a few hundred feet above the ground.

Fog is fairly typical across western Russia during the fall and winter months, though it is rare to see fog this dense to last for this long, according to Roys.

For the latest weather news check back on AccuWeather.com . Watch the AccuWeather Network on DIRECTV , Frontier , Spectrum , fuboTV , Philo , and Verizon Fios . AccuWeather Now is now available on your preferred streaming platform. 

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