EMERYVILLE (KRON) — Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial kickoff to the summertime travel season. And this weekend is projected to be the busiest in years in California, with the highest number of travelers expected since 2005, according to AAA’s latest holiday travel forecast.

AAA says figures show more than 4.4 million Californians plan on traveling 50 miles or more this Memorial Day weekend. That’s an increase of 4.6 percent from last year’s record highs.

“A stronger economy and overall lower gas prices have boosted consumers’ disposable income,” said Cynthia Harris, AAA Northern California spokeswoman. “This summer travel season is starting off with great potential as many Californians are eager to take that long overdue weekend getaway.”

AAA says more than 3.7 million Californians are expected to drive to their holiday destinations this weekend, a 5.5 percent increase from last year. About 420,000 Californians intend to take to the skies, with air travel expected to increase by 2.6 percent compared to 2014 figures. Approximately 294,000 residents are expected to travel by other forms of transportation, such as trains and buses. This represents a 3.4 percent decrease compared with last year.

Figures also show hotel rates at AAA Three Diamond lodgings are expected to increase by seven percent from a year ago, averaging $182 per night. Weekend car rentals rates will average $62 per day, $19.00 more than last year, according AAA. Airfares are falling two percent for the top 40 domestic flight routes, averaging $222.

For those who are planning to fly as part of their summertime getaway, AAA is offering up some tips:

· Avoid delay-prone flights. Before you book, make sure you’re on a flight that has a decent arrival history.

· Know your airline. Avoid airlines that are known for labor disruptions or major instances where flights have been canceled.

· Book a nonstop flight. If you fly direct, you won’t get stuck in a connecting city.

· Fly mornings. Whenever possible, book the first flight of the day. Delays tend to worsen later in the day.

· Leave enough time for connections. Schedule at least one hour for a connection. Give yourself more time if you have to change planes and go through security again.

· Use small airports. Avoid airline hubs whenever possible. Secondary airports are usually less congested and less prone to delays.