In just a few days, Memorial Day weekend will mark the unofficial start of the summer travel season. And according to AAA, more Americans than ever are expected to hit the road. It projects more than 45 million people will travel, up 1.5 million from the year before.

Memorial Day weekend travel numbers are estimated to be the highest in decades. Here's what you need to know as you make your plans.

Weekend is often referred to as the “unofficial start to summer,” with many Americans coming out of their winter hibernation and traveling to visit family or sunny destinations.