Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer — and in New Jersey, it’s the perfect time to hit the road and enjoy everything from the Jersey Shore to scenic mountain getaways. Whether you’re headed to Cape May, the Poconos, or just out for a beach day, here are essential tips to make your drive safe, smooth, and stress-free.
1. Plan Ahead and Leave Early
Traffic on Memorial Day weekend in NJ can be intense — especially on the Garden State Parkway and NJ Turnpike. Avoid the gridlock by:
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Leaving early in the morning or late in the evening.
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Using apps like Google Maps or Waze to check real-time traffic.
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Having a backup route just in case.
2. Prep Your Vehicle
Before heading out, make sure your car is road-trip ready:
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Check your tires, brakes, oil, and fluids.
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Make sure your AC works — it can get hot fast.
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Have an emergency kit: jumper cables, water, flashlight, phone charger.
3. Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas prices often spike during holiday weekends. Consider:
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Filling up a day or two early.
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Using apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas nearby.
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Avoiding fueling up near major highways or shore towns — they tend to be more expensive.
4. Drive Safe and Stay Alert
New Jersey State Police will be out in full force this weekend, so:
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Follow speed limits, especially in work zones.
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Don’t drive distracted — keep phones on hands-free.
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Take breaks every 2-3 hours to rest and stay alert.
5. Pack Snacks and Entertainment
Whether you’re traveling with kids or adults, make the ride more fun:
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Bring a cooler with drinks, snacks, and sandwiches.
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Download playlists or podcasts ahead of time (in case of spotty service).
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Keep games or books handy for the passengers.
6. Know Where You’re Going
Whether you’re heading to:
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Point Pleasant or Seaside Heights for boardwalk fun,
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The Delaware Water Gap for hiking and rivers,
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Or Wildwood or Cape May for beach relaxation…
Make sure to check weather reports, parking rules, and beach badge requirements in advance.
7. Respect the Holiday
Memorial Day is about honoring those who served. If possible:
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Visit a local veterans’ memorial.
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Participate in a parade or community service.
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Take a moment of silence with your family to reflect and remember.
Final Thoughts
New Jersey offers endless options for a memorable Memorial Day weekend — from beaches to mountains, parks to downtowns. With a little preparation and some smart driving, you can enjoy the ride and make the most of your getaway.
Safe travels and happy Memorial Day! 🇺🇸