Denver International Airport urging travelers to prepare ahead of busy July 4 weekend travel
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AAA: Record-Breaking 72.2 Million Americans Expected to Travel Over July 4th Holiday
A record number of Americans are expected to hit the road, skies, and seas this Independence Day holiday. AAA projects 72.2 million people will journey 50 miles or more between Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, July 6. A projected 61.6 million travelers will drive to their destinations, a 2.2% increase from last year and the highest number of road travelers ever for the July 4th period. AAA recommends completing all routine maintenance, packing an emergency kit, and leaving early to avoid heavy traffic. In 2024, AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside calls during the same week for issues ranging from flat tires to lockouts.
“This will be the busiest Independence Day travel period on record,” said Lori Weaver Hawkins, Public and Government Affairs Manager for AAA Blue Grass. “We urge travelers to prepare ahead—whether you’re driving or flying—to avoid delays and ensure a smooth trip.”
Travel by Car: Still King
A projected 61.6 million travelers will drive to their destinations, a 2.2% increase from last year and the highest number of road travelers ever for the July 4th period. AAA recommends completing all routine maintenance, packing an emergency kit, and leaving early to avoid heavy traffic.
In 2024, AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside calls during the same week for issues ranging from flat tires to lockouts and dead batteries. While gas prices have ticked up due to global oil market fluctuations—including the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict—they remain lower than they were in 2021.
July 3 is expected to be the busiest day for car rentals, with Hertz reporting high demand for SUVs and midsize sedans. Top road trip destinations include Orlando, Denver, Boston, Oahu, and Seattle.
Travel by Air: Another Record Year
Air travel is also poised to break records, with 5.84 million people projected to fly—an 8% share of all travelers and a 1.4% increase over last year’s record.
AAA advises air travelers to:
Arrive early at the airport
Carry a REAL ID-compliant ID
Download airline apps for live updates
The average roundtrip domestic airfare this July 4th is $810, up 4% from last year. For better deals, AAA recommends booking weekday flights, especially on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
Other Modes: Cruising Back in a Big Way
Roughly 4.78 million travelers will choose buses, trains, or cruises, with cruising leading the surge. Alaska cruises are especially popular in July, driving near-record numbers for this category—just shy of the 2019 record of 4.79 million.
Top July 4th Destinations
Based on AAA bookings, top Independence Day destinations include:
Domestic: Orlando, Seattle, Boston, Oahu, New York, Miami, Las Vegas, and Alaska cruise ports
International: Vancouver, Rome, London, Dublin, and Paris
AAA encourages families to explore national parks or plan ahead for Alaska cruise season. For more travel inspiration, visit AAA’s Trip Canvas.
Whether by land, air, or sea, AAA advises travelers to plan ahead and expect busy roads and crowded terminals as America celebrates its independence.
TSA Prepares for a Record-Breaking 18.5 Million Travelers During the Fourth of July Holiday in the United States— Are You Ready for the Rush?
TSA Prepares for a Record-Breaking 18.5 million Travelers During the Fourth of July Holiday in the United States. The highest volume of travelers is expected on Sunday, July 6, with about 2.9 million passengers anticipated to pass through security checkpoints nationwide. It’s essential to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to clear security, especially if you’re flying on a busy day. TSA also urges travelers to pack smart by starting with an empty bag and reviewing the list of prohibited items before heading to the airport. Nearly 94% of passengers have already switched to REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, like a passport. Firearms must be unloaded, locked in a hard-sided container, and transported as checked baggage. Those requiring extra help during the security screening process are encouraged to contact TSA Cares 72 hours in advance. Passengers with disabilities or medical conditions can call 855-787-2227 to arrange for support before their flight. For families traveling with children, TSA has introduced special procedures to make the security process easier and less stressful.
With the Fourth of July holiday fast approaching, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is gearing up to screen over 18.5 million passengers from July 1 through July 7. The highest volume of travelers is expected on Sunday, July 6, with about 2.9 million passengers anticipated to pass through security checkpoints nationwide. This marks one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and TSA is fully prepared to handle the surge of travelers.
How is TSA Ensuring Smooth Travel for Families During the Holiday Rush?
For families traveling with young children, TSA has introduced special procedures to make the security process easier and less stressful. Children aged 12 and under are allowed to accompany a TSA PreCheck®-enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes. This means families can enjoy faster screenings without the hassle of separating from their children. Additionally, essential items like strollers, baby carriers, and car seats are permitted through the security checkpoints but will need to be screened through X-ray machines.
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What Technologies and Procedures Are TSA Deploying to Enhance Security and Passenger Experience?
TSA is deploying advanced technologies and implementing enhanced security procedures to improve the overall airport experience. These innovations are designed to keep passengers safe while ensuring minimal delays. One key element of this initiative is the increased use of automated screening lanes and biometric technology, which speed up the process and reduce wait times. TSA also urges travelers to pack smart by starting with an empty bag and reviewing the list of prohibited items before heading to the airport.
What Can Travelers Expect on Peak Travel Days?
Travelers should expect longer wait times at security checkpoints, especially on peak travel days like Sunday, July 6. TSA encourages passengers to pack their patience and be prepared for a more thorough security check on high-traffic days. However, with TSA PreCheck®, passengers can enjoy expedited screening, which offers a quicker and more efficient process. It’s essential to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to clear security, especially if you’re flying on a busy day.
What Are TSA’s Tips for Preparing for Airport Security Screening?
TSA recommends that travelers familiarize themselves with the REAL ID requirements before traveling. Since May 7, REAL ID has become a mandatory identification requirement at TSA checkpoints. Nearly 94% of passengers have already switched to REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, like a passport. Remember, travelers should always prepare, pack, and declare when bringing firearms or other restricted items into the airport. Firearms must be unloaded, locked in a hard-sided container, and transported as checked baggage.
Additionally, TSA’s TSA Cares program offers assistance to passengers with disabilities or medical conditions. Those requiring extra help during the security screening process are encouraged to contact TSA Cares 72 hours in advance.
What Should You Know About TSA’s Support for Passengers with Disabilities?
For passengers who require additional assistance, TSA’s TSA Cares program is available. Passengers with disabilities or medical conditions can call 855-787-2227 to arrange for support before their flight. This service ensures that passengers who need assistance can receive the help they need to navigate airport security with ease.
How Can You Get Quick Answers to TSA-Related Questions During Travel?
Travelers can easily access help and get answers to common TSA questions through TSA’s social media channels or by texting 275-872 (“AskTSA”). Whether you need guidance on what to pack or have specific concerns about the screening process, TSA’s team is ready to assist you in real-time.
What Are TSA’s Key Security Tips for Holiday Travelers?
Start with an Empty Bag : To avoid bringing prohibited items to the airport, always check the TSA list of banned items before packing.
: To avoid bringing prohibited items to the airport, always check the TSA before packing. Travel Smart : If you’re traveling with gifts or oversized items, make sure they fit within TSA guidelines .
: If you’re traveling with gifts or oversized items, make sure they fit within . Check Your ID : Make sure to bring a REAL ID or another form of acceptable identification.
: Make sure to bring a or another form of acceptable identification. Arrive Early: With the high volume of passengers during peak days, it’s important to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight, especially if you’re flying on a busy travel day.
How Will TSA’s Procedures Help Reduce Stress for Families Traveling with Children?
Traveling with children can be stressful, but TSA has made accommodations to make the process easier. Families can avoid unnecessary stress as children under 12 years old are allowed to use the TSA PreCheck® lanes with their PreCheck®-enrolled parents. This enables families to bypass long lines and enjoy faster security checks. Additionally, TSA has reduced the likelihood of pat-downs for children through modified screening procedures, further reducing the potential stress of the security process.
What Should Passengers Know About Traveling with Firearms?
For those who need to travel with firearms, TSA has clear guidelines on how to handle this process safely and legally. Firearms must be unloaded and packed in a hard-sided, locked container. They must be checked in as baggage only and not carried onto the plane. By adhering to TSA’s rules, travelers can ensure a smooth experience when traveling with firearms.
How Can You Help TSA Provide a Smooth and Secure Travel Experience?
TSA recommends that all travelers follow the three-step rule: Prepare, Pack, and Declare. By packing an empty bag, reviewing prohibited items, and ensuring your identification is ready, you will help ensure a smooth airport experience. TSA is also encouraging travelers to use the TSA PreCheck® program, as this allows for faster, more efficient screening.
What Are TSA’s Key Stats for This Holiday Travel Season?
The TSA is preparing for one of the busiest travel periods of the year. With over 18.5 million travelers expected, the Fourth of July holiday is projected to see nearly 3 million passengers on the busiest day of the season, Sunday, July 6. With this in mind, TSA is urging all travelers to stay prepared, be patient, and follow security guidelines to ensure their holiday travel goes smoothly.
Is TSA Ready for Record-Breaking Travel Numbers?
TSA is confident that it is ready to handle the anticipated 18.5 million passengers expected for the Fourth of July holiday period. With a fully staffed team and advanced screening technologies, TSA has been working closely with its industry partners to ensure that airport security is seamless and efficient for travelers.
As travelers continue to plan their summer getaways, TSA is prepared to help make the journey easier and more efficient. Whether you’re traveling with children, pets, or simply flying for a well-deserved vacation, TSA has implemented new procedures and practices to streamline the process and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all.
For more information about TSA procedures, visit TSA.gov or check out social media channels for real-time updates. Stay informed and travel smart this summer!
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TSA Prepares for Millions of Travelers During Fourth of July Rush: What You Need to Know About Security
TSA expects 18.5 million passengers to pass through airport security checkpoints during the holiday travel window. The agency has already set a record for the busiest travel day in TSA history, screening nearly 3.1 million passengers on Sunday, June 22, 2025. Travelers are advised to plan ahead and ensure they have all necessary documentation, including a REAL ID or passport. For those traveling with strollers, car seats, or baby carriers, the TSA allows these items through security, though they must be scanned by X-ray. The TSA has also implemented modified screening procedures for families to minimize the likelihood of requiring pat-downs, which can sometimes cause stress for young travelers. Those with disabilities or medical conditions who require additional assistance are encouraged to contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before their flight. The helpline is available by calling (855) 787-2227. For more information on how to prepare for the Fourth of July holiday period, visit the TSA’s Travel Estimates website here.
The Fourth of July is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and 2025 will be no exception. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that it expects more than 18.5 million passengers to pass through airport security checkpoints across the country during the holiday travel window. This period will run from Tuesday, July 1, to Monday, July 7, 2025, with the peak day anticipated to be Sunday, July 6, when approximately 2.9 million people are expected to travel. This surge in travelers highlights the need for travelers to be prepared and for the TSA to be ready to efficiently handle the increased volume.
TSA’s Preparedness and Focus on Efficient Screening
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In preparation for this year’s busy holiday season, the TSA has been working closely with industry partners to ensure airport security checkpoints are fully staffed and ready to handle the high number of travelers. Acting TSA Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill shared that the agency is deploying advanced technologies and refining procedures to enhance security while ensuring a smoother passenger experience, especially for families traveling with children.
“TSA continues to work closely with our industry partners to ensure our airport security checkpoints are fully staffed and prepared to handle the heavy rush of traffic,” said McNeill in a press release. “We are deploying technologies and procedures to improve security and enhance the passenger experience, including for families.”
The agency has already set a record for the busiest travel day in TSA history, screening nearly 3.1 million passengers on Sunday, June 22, 2025. This milestone demonstrates the agency’s capability in handling large volumes of air travelers while maintaining high levels of safety and efficiency. Despite these accomplishments, TSA officials are urging travelers to pack their patience, especially during peak travel days when long lines and delays are likely.
What You Need to Know for Smooth Airport Experience
For those flying during the Fourth of July period, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth experience. Travelers should be mindful of the required identification for airport security. Since the REAL ID requirement was implemented in May 2025, nearly 94 percent of passengers have been showing a compliant ID, such as a REAL ID or passport. Without proper identification, passengers may face delays, so it’s essential to ensure you are carrying the correct documents.
“REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification is required at the airport,” said McNeill. “Travelers should check their ID ahead of time to avoid any last-minute surprises.”
Families with children should also take note of the TSA’s efforts to make travel easier for them. Children aged 12 and under can accompany their parent or guardian through TSA PreCheck lanes, which can significantly reduce wait times at security checkpoints. In addition, children will not be separated from their parents during the screening process, which provides much-needed peace of mind for families traveling together.
For those traveling with strollers, car seats, or baby carriers, the TSA allows these items through security, though they must be scanned by X-ray. The TSA has also implemented modified screening procedures for families to minimize the likelihood of requiring pat-downs, which can sometimes cause stress for young travelers.
TSA Cares for Passengers with Disabilities
Passengers with disabilities or medical conditions who require additional assistance are encouraged to contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before their flight. TSA Cares is a helpline that provides support for passengers who need extra help navigating airport security.
The helpline is available by calling (855) 787-2227. Those who require specific accommodations can receive tailored support to ensure their travel experience is as smooth as possible.
Comparison to Last Year’s Travel Estimates
Last year, the TSA had even higher expectations for air travel, predicting that more than 28 million travelers would take to the skies for the Fourth of July holiday period. This marked a 5.4 percent increase in the number of travelers compared to the previous year. However, despite the higher forecast for 2024, the number of expected passengers for 2025 remains significant, with a total of 18.5 million travelers expected to pass through TSA checkpoints.
The slight decrease in 2025’s projected travel volume could be attributed to various factors, including fluctuating economic conditions, evolving travel trends, and changes in airline scheduling. Nevertheless, the Fourth of July holiday period remains one of the busiest times of the year for airports across the United States.
Final Thoughts on Traveling for Fourth of July 2025
As travelers gear up for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, it is important to keep in mind that preparation is key. With TSA expecting millions of passengers over the Fourth of July week, travelers are advised to plan ahead and ensure they have all necessary documentation, including a REAL ID or another accepted form of identification. Additionally, those traveling with children or requiring extra assistance should take advantage of TSA’s family-friendly and accessibility services to ensure a smooth experience at security checkpoints.
While the holiday travel season can be stressful, TSA’s efforts to enhance screening procedures, employ advanced technologies, and provide clear communication can help make the process more manageable for everyone. With a little patience and the right preparation, passengers can enjoy their summer vacation without unnecessary delays.
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Busy Fourth of July travel period takes off at Atlanta airport
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International officials expect more than 4 million passengers to pass through from Thursday until July 7. TSA officials are urging people to plan ahead and arrive to the airport early. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is using new technology at the airport to streamline travelers’ arrivals into the country. AAA expects more than 2 million Georgians to head to their vacation destinations by car this year. The Transportation Security Administration is expecting 18.5 million people to fly during the Fourth of July. The TSA is urging travelers to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure, and at least 3 hours early for international travel. For domestic flights, passengers should arrive 2-3 hours early.
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The Brief
Officials at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport say they are ready for hundreds of thousands of travelers during the busy Fourth of July travel period.
Officials say Thursday and Friday will see hundreds of thousands of passengers traveling through the world’s busiest airport.
To help things run smoother, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is using new technology to speed up the customs process at the airport.
ATLANTA – The busy Fourth of July travel period is already taking off, and officials at the world’s busiest airport in Atlanta say they’re prepared for the hundreds of thousands of travelers to hit the skies.
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International officials expect more than 4 million passengers to pass through from Thursday until July 7.
What we know
Friday is expected to be the busiest day of the season with airport officials estimating that nearly 400,000 passengers will be traveling through Atlanta.
Thursday won’t be far behind. Hartsfield-Jackson officials project that they’ll see about 384,000 passengers.
Nationwide, the Transportation Security Administration is expecting 18.5 million people to fly during the Fourth of July.
Travelers head off at the start of the busy Fourth of July travel period. (FOX 5)
In order to ease these summer travel numbers, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is using new technology at the airport to streamline travelers’ arrivals into the country.
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The technology captures the passenger’s image on the move, which speeds up the process of getting through customs.
What they’re saying
“When you’re looking at an airport as busy as Atlanta where we’ll see upwards of 27,000 passengers on any given summer day, that translates into a 22% efficiency rate where we’re seeing a 40 to 50% decrease in passenger wait times,” said Clay Thomas, the Atlanta-area port director of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
What you can do
To help travelers navigate the crowds, TSA officials are urging people to plan ahead and arrive to the airport early.
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For domestic flights, passengers should arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure, and at least 3 hours early for international travel.
Planning on driving? You should also prepare for delays as travelers pack the roads. AAA expects more than 2 million Georgians to head to their vacation destinations by car this year.
The Source
Information for this story came from a press conference by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, information from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and a report from FOX 5’s Brooke Zauner.
United Airlines changes traveler check-in times for domestic flights
United Airlines is changing its check-in cutoff time ahead of the busy summer travel season. The Chicago-based airline will now require check-ins for domestic flights 45 minutes before departure, up from 30 minutes. The move, which applies to travelers without checked bags, starts June 3. The 45-minute cutoff will generally apply to all United customers traveling with or withoutchecked bags on domestic flights.
United Airlines is changing its check-in cutoff time ahead of the busy summer travel season.
United Airlines is changing its check-in cutoff time ahead of the busy summer travel season.
United Airlines is changing its check-in cutoff time ahead of the busy summer travel season.
United Airlines is changing its check-in cutoff time ahead of the busy summer travel season.
CHICAGO — United Airlines is changing its check-in cutoff time ahead of the busy summer travel season.
The Chicago-based airline will now require check-ins for domestic flights 45 minutes before departure, up from 30 minutes. The move, which applies to travelers without checked bags, starts June 3.
“The change brings greater consistency for our customers by aligning with our current checked baggage deadline and the check-in policies followed by most other airlines,” United told “Good Morning America” via email.
United Airlines jetliners taxi down a runway for departure from Denver International Airport Friday, May 23, 2025, in Denver. AP Photo/David Zalubowski
The 45-minute cutoff will generally apply to all United customers traveling with or without checked bags on domestic flights. For international flights, United passengers will have to check in 60 minutes before departure.
SEE ALSO: Southwest Airlines sets price for baggage fees | See how much you’ll have to pay
In some cases, check-in times may vary, depending on the flight or airport destination, United said.
“Some airports or flights have special time limits which depend on location. If you don’t meet your check-in time limits, we’ll do our best to find another option,” United explains on its website , along with a list of locations with different cutoff times. “However, we have the right to deny service which may result in cancellation of your reservation, denied boarding or the option to check your bags.”