PENNSYLVANIA, USA — If you're planning to travel this Labor Day weekend, it's time to prepare now!
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission estimates 2.9 million people will be on the road this year, a more than 2% increase from 2023. With the increased volume of cars, officials are urging travelers to plan ahead to ensure they avoid traffic and reach their destination safely.
For those looking to beat traffic, Crispin Havener with the Turnpike says, "If your travel plans are flexible, we do suggest maybe Saturday and Sunday to get to your destination for Monday."
According to Havener, leaving earlier or later than normal could also cut time off your drive.
He said this includes, "Early in the morning, maybe around sunrise before the morning rush begins, and then maybe after the evening rush on Thursday and Friday as you make your way into nighttime hours those will be the least traveled times."
And while finding the perfect time to get on the road for your travel plans is important, officials also urge drivers to be prepared for anything.
Havener explained, "It's been a hot summer and certainly this week's going to be hot, so we just encourage folks to make sure they're well rested, make sure they have things they need in case maybe your car breaks down."
But breakdowns aren't the only thing to prepare for. Turnpike officials say on top of jumper cables, travelers should have water, snacks and weather appropriate clothing in their tool bags so in the event that your car does break down or you're left with no air conditioning, you can stay safe while waiting for help.
"I'm sure a lot of people think 'that'll never happen to me,' and then when they're least prepared it does happen to them, so just encourage folks to make sure they have what they need in case the worst happens to you," said Havener.
And for those unexpected delays, the Turnpike Commission is ramping up state police and GEICO Safety Patrol presence to give drivers a little extra help on the road.
Pennsylvania State Police's Cpl. Richard Levan said, "These measures aim to keep motorists safe and reduce the risk of accidents during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.”
Levan says police will be stationed in known high congestion areas, which includes the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire in Lancaster County and areas between Philadelphia and Harrisburg.
GEICO Safety Patrols are also available to any drivers in need of assistance, from changing a tire to helping in the aftermath of a crash. Those in need of assistance can dial *11 while on the Turnpike, but officials are telling drivers to remain in their cars when pulling off to the side of the road to reduce further crashes.
To find out what your trip will cost, the Turnpike Commission also provides a toll calculator.