This Memorial Day holiday weekend expect to see more drivers on the roads than you've seen in years.
The employees at Larry's Quick Stop and Mystik Gas Station are gearing up for a busy few days.
"I'm sure it'll be quite a few (customers) between now and Friday," said employee Lisa Clemons.
She and the other workers, like Fran Harris, are used to meeting dozens of travelers at their downtown location.
"They were talking about how they appreciate Nashville and how everyone is so friendly," Harris said about the big crowd last weekend for the Preds game and Car Show.
But if AAA's forecast proves right, it could be an extra big rush Thursday to Monday with 785,000 Tennesseans expected to hit the road, traveling 50 miles or more.
That's on par with the national trend, which is the largest number expected in the last 12 years.
"If you are traveling, especially by car this weekend, you will have a lot of company," said AAA Tennessee Public Affairs Specialist Megan Osborne.
Analysts said one major factor in Tennessee is the low cost of gas. The average price at the pump was 6 cents lower Thursday than it was this time last year, which means more people can go further for less.
"Even though it's a few cents if you're traveling more than 50 miles that's a nice break for your pocket book," Osborne said.
She also noted consumer confidence and the summer break as factors.
Whatever the reasons, the holiday weekend rush will benefit businesses like the Mystik Gas Station. Osborne said others experiencing an uptick this year will be car rental companies, cruise ships and airlines.
AAA suggested everyone have their car checked before heading out on a long trip. They expect to rescue more than 330,000 motorists due to issues like flat tires and dead batteries.
Earlier this week TDOT announced it will suspending all construction for the holiday weekend, from noon on Friday to 6 a.m. Tuesday morning.
AAA is also offering its free Tow-to-Go service for Tennessee residents Friday through Monday. They'll tow you and your car up to 10 miles if you've had too much to drink. Just call 855-2-Tow-2-GO.
