More Ohioans will be taking to the roads this Labor Day weekend.

Kevin Thomas, Vice President of the AAA Akron Auto Club says that despite the economy, more drivers will get on the roads during the holiday weekend.

This Labor Day weekend, Thomas says approximately 33 million Americans will be on the road taking trips of 50 miles or more.

"We're happy to report that we do expect to see a slight increase in Labor Day travel this upcoming weekend," Thomas explained.

AAA Akron proejects Travel is expected to be up 3% from last year.

Despite the rising gas prices, Thomas says that won't deter drivers from going on a little weekend getaway this holiday season.

"We have seen that increase over the past few weeks, but what we tend to see is that travelers make adjustments in their spending to compensate for that increase in fuel prices."

He (Thomas) says there's a few quality pieces of advice every driver should follow as they make their Labor Day travel plans.

"We encourage people to look out for discounts, make sure everyone is properly restrained, and that people drive safely."

He also emphasized the dangers of using electronic devices, including those used for texting, while driving a motor vehicle.

An increased number of  people will be taking to the roads this Memorial Day weekend with family and friends.

Kevin Thomas, Vice  President of the AAA Akron Auto Club says more travelers will be hitting the highways during the long weekend.

"We are looking at a slight increase over last year, with over 34.8 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more over the weekend, which is a 1 percent increase from last year."

Approximately 500,000 more drivers will be on Northeast Ohio roads this Memorial Day weekend.

Thomas says with the dropping gas prices and steady optimism about the economy, more drivers will make the trip.

"Gas prices actually I think are helping people make the decision to travel because they are lower," he says.

"The drop in the prices over the last several weeks are really helping the motorists."

AAA Akron Vice President Kevin Thomas by Akron NewsNow

He believes that people are feeling good enough about the economy and will make changes along the way  in their spending habits instead of choosing either to go or not go.

Thomas says that no matter where you go or what you do this Memorial Day weekend, safety is the key.

"We encourage all of our members and travelers and motorists everywhere to take all of the precautions possible, take your time, know where you're going, and drive defensively."

He also emphasized all passengers, especially children using their seat belts while traveling.

"It's important to know child safety seat regulations and other laws while you're driving, because we want people to have safe and enjoyable journeys."