By Paris Jackson

EUGENE, Ore.-- Thursday marks the start of the long Labor Day travel weekend. AAA predicts nearly 34 million Americans will head to a holiday destination at least 50 miles away from home. It's a nearly 10% increase from last year.

In fact, AAA anticipates 11% of travelers in the Pacific Region will go by plane or car to enjoy the holiday. That travel prediction, includes states like Oregon and Washington, which is seeing an uptick in trips, compared to the national average.

AAA managers say the major reason is because western states haven't been hit by the gulf oil spill and more people are willing to open up their wallets.

"I think people are just ready. Its been growing for the last year. Maybe not at the pace we were hoping, but its certainly is growing. People are getting out and wanting to do things that they have put off for a year or two ... and taking more than one trip," said Barbara Nichols, AAA Oregon Regional Manager.

Travel experts say more people will drive, 91% compared to just 5% of travelers flying. Experts say they expect the Interstate five corridor to be packed with people heading either to the Oregon Coast or up to Washington.