Fly or drive? What Labor Day travel could cost from the Coachella Valley

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — With Labor Day weekend approaching, travelers across the Coachella Valley are weighing not just where they want to go, but how much they are willing to spend to get there.

For some, higher gas prices are not enough to cancel a trip altogether. Reuben Sanchez said he is still planning to travel for his daughter’s birthday, even if it means paying more at the pump.

“A little bit, but it’s for my daughter’s birthday, so, you know, I’m going to do what I have to do and dish out the cash.”

Others said the rising cost of travel is changing how often, and how far, they are willing to go.

Some travelers may choose the road even when gas prices are high. For solo travelers, driving can still save hundreds of dollars. For families or groups splitting the cost of a vehicle, the difference can be even greater.

Flying, however, can still appeal to travelers looking to save time and avoid spending hours on the road.

AAA spokesperson Candice Redd said many people are still planning to take road trips despite higher gas prices.

“Even with higher gas prices, people are still planning to take a road trip. That’s simply because it’s cheaper than, let’s say, flying.”

AAA also expects heavy holiday traffic, especially Thursday and Friday between noon and 8 p.m.

CHP Public Information Officer David Torres said travelers should plan around peak travel times when possible.

“If you want to avoid the traffic, make sure you drive outside the peak hours. Try leaving maybe on Saturday instead of Friday…”

CHP is also urging drivers to give themselves extra time, check road conditions before leaving and never drive impaired.

For many travelers this Labor Day weekend, higher prices may not be enough to cancel the trip — but they could have a major impact on whether that trip starts at the airport or behind the wheel.