BALTIMORE (WJZ)–Marylanders are expected to hit the roads in higher amounts this Labor Day. Analysts expect a 3 percent rise in the number of motorists from last year.

Tim Williams reports.

Triple-A Mid-Atlantic said more people are traveling this year. Some are flying and those who haven’t already hit the roads are hitting them now.

This isn’t surprising to analysts, who said 659,000 Marylanders will travel at least 50 miles round-trip away from home.

“It seems despite economic hardships and higher gas prices, compared to last year, Marylanders are resilient when it comes to travel. Especially for many, this is the last summer trip they’ll be taking this year,” said Christine Delise, a spokesperson for Triple-A Mid-Alantic.

According to Triple-A, airfares for the Labor Day weekend decreased by 4 percent from last year, while car rentals have decreased by 10 percent.

Hotels also had a 4 percent increase in rates per night.

About the only thing noticeably up is gas prices.

Delise offered some tips for drivers.

“Make sure your car is road ready, as one breakdown can lead to extensive backups on the road. Leave plenty of time as you will face congestion. If you have an E-ZPass definitely use it and try to pack up your car the night before,” she said.