Memorial Day travel is projected to beat a 20-year-old record high this year, according to AAA data released last week.The big picture: Americans' deep pessimism about the economy isn't deterring them from traveling to celebrate the unofficial start of summer.

AAA responded to more than 356,000 roadside emergencies during Memorial Day weekend in 2024, according to the organization.

As nearly 39.4 million Americans prepare to hit the road for Memorial Day weekend, AAA is urging drivers to check their vehicles before traveling—or risk becoming one of the thousands stranded during one of the year’s busiest travel weekends.