The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects a record-breaking 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home during the Independence Day holiday period, spanning from Saturday (June 28) to Sunday (July 6). This marks a 2.4% increase from last year and 7 million more travelers than in 2019.

According to AAA, driving remains the most popular travel mode, with 61.6 million people expected to hit the roads, a 2.2% increase from last year. Despite a slight rise in gas prices due to the Israel-Iran conflict, summer gas prices remain the lowest since 2021. AAA advises drivers to perform routine vehicle maintenance and pack an emergency kit before setting out.

Air travel is also expected to set a new record, with 5.84 million travelers flying to their destinations. Although domestic airfare is 4% more expensive than last year, averaging $810, the demand for air travel remains strong. For those looking to save, flying on weekdays like Tuesdays or Wednesdays is recommended.

Other modes of transportation, including buses, trains, and cruises, are projected to grow by 7.4% over last year, with 4.78 million people expected to travel this way. Cruises, especially to Alaska, are particularly popular this time of year.

The holiday's timing allows for extended trips, with many travelers taking advantage of the long weekend. Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going, notes that the "Fourth of July Friday" provides an opportunity for longer vacations without using a full week of paid time off.

It’s been almost a decade since travelers have had a 'Fourth of July Friday,' meaning they are likely taking full advantage of the long weekend to build out longer trips," Nastro told USA Today. "For travelers who are planning an international getaway this year, the day-off positioning means people can strategically build a weeklong trip without burning a full work week of PTO."

For those planning road trips, INRIX recommends traveling in the morning to avoid the worst traffic, particularly on Wednesday (July 2) and Sunday (July 6), which are expected to be the busiest days on the road.

AAA's top destinations for the holiday include Orlando, Denver, and Boston, with Vancouver leading international travel spots. Travelers are advised to stay informed about potential weather disruptions, especially with the Atlantic hurricane season underway, which could impact travel plans.

Bill Handel