How to avoid the mass travel exodus expected for Memorial Day Weekend

SEATTLE -- Millions are preparing to head out of town for the unofficial start of summer - the Memorial Day weekend. And for sure, we'll have our share of congestion in Western Washington.

Whether you go by plane, boat or car, Memorial Day travel will be busy. AAA says nearly 38 million travelers plan to take a road trip, almost a 4% uptick from last year.

It's a great idea to hit the road for the Memorial Day holiday before Friday. But if you can't, plan ahead.

As for the best and worst times to travel around the Puget Sound - the Washington State Department of Transportation says travelers should avoid I-5 northbound between Bellingham and Canada on Friday from 1-6 p.m. and expect longer wait times at the Peace Arch at the Washington-Canada Line.

Another congested stretch is heading south on I-5 from Pierce County. Go very early or late to bypass the gridlock from Tacoma. I-5 is expected to be packed from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

You can count on a somewhat lighter commute traveling east through the Cascades on Highway 2 through Stevens Pass before 10 a.m. Friday and after 10 p.m.

The heavier delays eastbound are expected on I-90 via Snoqualmie Pass starting as early as 9 a.m. extending to 8 p.m.

Travel experts say increased gas prices here in Washington will not deter people from driving. If you opt to go by plane or boat - you'll see extra crowds at Sea-Tac Airport and area ferry terminals.