How To Avoid The Congestion This Memorial Day Weekend On New Jersey Roads

With Memorial Day weekend less than two weeks away, millions are expected to hit the road.

Whether you're heading to the beach or getting out of town for a few days, timing your trip can make all the difference.

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The last thing you want is to be stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic just five minutes into your drive.

So, when's the best time to drive - and when should you steer clear of the roads?

Read More: The New Jersey Roads That Are Considered The Most Hated In America

Expect heavy volume on New Jersey roads this Memorial Day weekend.

AAA is expecting a surge in travel this year, so be sure to pack your patience along with your bags.

“While some travelers embark on dream vacations and fly hundreds of miles across the country, many families just pack up the car and drive to the beach or take a road trip to visit friends. Long holiday weekends are ideal for travel because many people have an extra day off work and students are off from school,” says Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel.  

Best travel times for the long holiday weekend.

The best time to hit the road is before noon on Thursday, May 22nd, and Saturday, May 24th.

If you're traveling on Friday, May 23rd, aim to leave before 11 am to avoid the worst holiday traffic.

For returning home, leave before 1 pm on Sunday, May 25th, and before 2 pm on Monday, May 26th.

AAA says 87% of those traveling during the long holiday weekend are opting for a road trip, and there's some good news this year compared to this time last year.

Cheaper gas prices.

Last Memorial Day, the national average for a gallon of regular was $3.59.