Boston (AP) — The thought of one more road trip before winter is inspiring more New England residents to travel during the Labor Day holiday weekend.

AAA says about 1.6 million New England residents, or about 11.3 percent of the population, will travel 50 miles or more from home during the weekend. That represents a three percent increase over last year, just slightly ahead of the national forecast of 2.9 percent.

AAA Southern New England says the increase appears to reflect the nation's continued slow and steady economic recovery.

Travelers began trekking out of their homes as early as Thursday in an effort to beat the holiday travel crowd.

Recent data shows New England has seen modest labor market improvements, encouraging slightly more travel.

Proximity to popular attraction is also fueling Labor Day travel.