Michigan Travel Surges: 2.6 Million travelers Expected to Hit the Road, Skies, and Rails for July 4th Holiday

AAA has released its forecast for the 2025 Independence Day travel period, predicting a record-breaking 2.6 million Michiganders will travel during the holiday from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6. This marks a nearly 3% increase from last year, with 71,000 additional Michigan residents expected to hit the road, skies, and rails.

The surge in travel comes as Americans look to capitalize on extended weekends and the long-awaited summer vacation opportunities, with AAA also projecting that 72.2 million people nationwide will travel for the holiday. This represents an increase of 1.7 million travelers, or 2.4%, compared to 2024, and an additional 7 million travelers since 2019.

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Travel Trends in Michigan: Road Trips, Flights, and Cruises

For Michigan residents, the holiday weekend will see substantial travel across various modes of transportation, with nearly 2.4 million people taking road trips, a 2.5% increase from the previous year. This marks an expected rise of 59,000 more road travelers in Michigan alone. As the most popular mode of travel, driving continues to dominate, with people heading out to enjoy everything from relaxing beach vacations to attending fireworks displays.

Air travel is also on the rise, with nearly 96,000 Michiganders expected to fly, a 1% increase from last year. Domestic flights continue to show strong demand, reflecting the overall nationwide surge in air travel. Airfares are predicted to average $810 for a round-trip flight, up 4% from the previous year. Travelers looking to save on flight costs are advised to book midweek departures, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, to find better deals.

Meanwhile, travel by other means, such as buses, trains, and cruises, is expected to reach more than 160,000 Michigan residents. This marks a significant 7% increase from last year, driven in large part by the growing popularity of cruise travel, particularly in Alaska during peak season.

Record Numbers on the Road Nationwide

Nationwide, AAA estimates that a record 61.6 million Americans will take road trips during the holiday period, an increase of 2.2% over last year. Michigan’s share of these travelers reflects the national trend, with many people planning longer getaways thanks to the holiday falling on a Friday. However, drivers are urged to prepare for potential challenges, as AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls last year during the holiday period.

Road congestion is expected to be heavy, with Wednesday, July 2, and Sunday, July 6, projected to be the busiest days. Travel during these times will likely experience delays, with the worst travel times being between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Early mornings are the ideal times for smoother travel, as this is when roads tend to be less congested.

Impact of Gas Prices and Travel Tips for Michigan Drivers

As travelers prepare to drive, gas prices may play a role in planning. Oil prices surged last week due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, potentially affecting gasoline production costs. While analysts believe the price increase may be temporary, it remains uncertain whether gas prices will stabilize in time for the holiday weekend. Currently, Michigan residents are paying around $3.30 per gallon, which is approximately 30 cents less than last year.

For those planning a road trip, AAA recommends checking vehicle readiness before embarking on long-distance travel. Common issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks caused a significant portion of roadside assistance calls last year. Travelers are advised to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, with special attention to tire pressure and oil levels, to avoid delays and safety hazards.

Top Independence Day Destinations and Travel Inspiration

AAA’s booking data highlights the most popular destinations for July 4th, both domestically and internationally. Domestically, Florida is expected to draw significant crowds, with Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami leading the pack. Alaska cruises also remain a top choice, with many looking to explore the rugged beauty of the state’s glaciers and natural landscapes. Additionally, cities like New York, Boston, and Honolulu are among the top U.S. cities, especially for their spectacular fireworks displays.

For those considering international travel, cities like Vancouver, Rome, and Paris dominate the list. Vancouver stands out for its blend of natural beauty and urban excitement, while Rome and Paris continue to attract travelers with their iconic landmarks and summer festivals.

Planning for Travel Disruptions

Travelers are encouraged to consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly with the unpredictable nature of modern travel. Whether dealing with last-minute flight delays, lost luggage, or unexpected medical emergencies, insurance offers peace of mind and protection against disruptions.

Travelers can lock in plans through AAA’s online travel booking portal or by connecting with a AAA Travel Advisor for assistance in crafting a trip that suits their interests and preferences.

As Independence Day draws near, both Michigan residents and travelers across the country are gearing up for one of the busiest holiday travel seasons on record. With careful planning and a little extra preparation, travelers can make the most of their summer getaways, whether on the road, in the skies, or on the water.

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Why you’ll love it: Is a trip to Lubbock a left-field selection as far as cheap family vacations go? It sure is, but Lubbock is a surprisingly fun hub of art, music, theater and mid-century architecture. You’ll love wandering around downtown and looking up at the stunning buildings, as well as popping into stellar restaurants like The Nicolett or sampling the local wineries to visit. Enjoy a show at the glittering new Buddy Holly Performing Arts Center—Lubbock was his home.

Budget tip: This west Texas town is thriving, thanks to one of the most spectacular public art collections found anywhere on earth. Massive sculptures are scattered all over Texas Tech University’s campus. Tours are free and involve riding around in a cute trolley, so even your little ones will be in heaven. To get the kids even more on board, promise them an hour or two at Prairie Dog Town. This public park is every bit as fun (and as literal) as the name suggests. Bring some bread or carrots and feed the little cuties for free.

How to get there: Lubbock can feel like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but the west Texas city is just a five-hour drive from Dallas. If you’d prefer to fly, Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport is just 15 minutes from downtown.

Where to stay: Families will love the Cotton Court Hotel on Broadway. The grassy courtyard is abuzz with activity every night—multiple fire pits, rocking chairs, live music, a bar and a pool.

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece on cheap family vacations, writer Jeff Bogle tapped his experience as a travel journalist and past contributor for Travel + Leisure. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Summer and holiday driving

Posted Friday, June 20, 2025 4:56 am

Holidays are a time of celebration, but they also come with a heightened risk of car accidents. Increased travel, crowded roads, and alcohol use can all contribute to more dangerous driving conditions. Some holidays, like the Fourth of July, are particularly hazardous. Understanding how to reduce your risk and what to do if an accident happens can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

6 holiday driving safety tips

Stay focused behind the wheel

Avoid distractions such as texting, checking social media, or fiddling with your GPS. Keep your eyes on the road and your attention on your surroundings. Distracted driving is one of the top three causes of driving related deaths, claiming 3,275 lives in 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed,” according to an NHTSA rerport. “You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention.” Don’t drink and drive

If you consume alcohol or get high, allow time for it to leave your system before driving. Switch to water or other non-alcoholic drinks well before you plan to leave any festivities. Driving on drugs and alcohol is the number one cause of fatal car accidents. “Every day, about 34 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes — that’s one person every 42 minutes,” according to the NHTSA. “In 2023, 12,429 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths. These deaths were all preventable.” And that doesn’t include drug-related deaths. Plan for post-fireworks traffic

Expect heavy congestion after holiday events. Consider waiting a while before hitting the road or find a safe, low-stress route to leave the area. Don’t be surprised or agitated by traffic backups. Enjoy yourself instead by leaving early to staying late until traffic eases. Stay calm in traffic

Patience can go a long way. Avoid aggressive driving, listen to relaxing music, and accept that delays are part of the holiday experience. Getting tense and creating conflict with other drivers only increases your chances of an accident. Wear your seat belt

Patience can go a long way. Avoid aggressive driving, listen to relaxing music, and accept that delays are part of the holiday experience. Getting tense and creating conflict with other drivers only increases your chances of an accident. Don’t speed

Speeding is a contributing factor is one-third of all fatal car crashes. In 2023, speeding killed 11,775 people.

6 steps to take after a car wreck

Seek medical help and call the police at 911

Prioritize safety. If injuries occur, call emergency services immediately and get medical attention. A police report can be crucial for insurance and legal claims so make sure to call the police so they will file a report. Try to stay calm

Don’t get in a verbal or physical confrontation with the other driver. Let the police do their job. Give police all your information and views on what happened. Never admit it was your fault, especially to the other driver. Notify your insurance company

Provide your insurer with the details of the crash, including when and where it happened and the extent of any injuries or damage. Be sure to get insurance information from the other driver at the scene. Keep records

Gather documentation of all medical treatments, diagnoses, and vehicle damage. These records will support your claim and help ensure proper compensation. If you are not injured and you can stay out of the way of traffic, it’s often a good idea to take some photos at the scene. Be cautious with settlement offers

If the other party’s insurance company contacts you, avoid accepting any settlement before fully understanding your rights . Early offers may not cover all current and future costs. Consult an attorney

A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate complex legal issues, establish liability, and advocate for full compensation—including future medical expenses.

Final thoughts after a car wreck

While taking safety precautions can reduce your risk of a holiday car accident, accidents can still happen. If they do, knowing the right steps to take can make a major difference in your physical, emotional, and financial recovery. Stay safe, stay alert, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

For a free consultation in Massachusetts, contact Dane Shulman and Associates, 617-298-2500

Best quick trips

You don’t need a full week off to enjoy a great vacation. In fact, the best escapes are the shortest ones. Quick trips are a perfect way to use your vacation days without overspending, while still giving yourself a well-earned break from the daily grind.

That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best quick getaways that not only allow you to travel on a budget but are also packed with fun, relaxation and serious vacation vibes—all in just a few days. Below, you’ll find easy-to-reach destinations both in the U.S. and abroad. We’re sharing why you’ll love each spot, how to stick to your budget and top recommendations to make planning a breeze. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends or with family, these quick trips are your ticket to a weekend getaway and mini-adventure.

Read on for the best quick trips for a fun, affordable and unforgettable adventure.

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For the first time in more than 10 years, Independence Day falls on a Friday in 2025. While Fourth of July is always a busy time for travel, the long weekend means travelers should prepare for larger crowds. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened a record number of passengers during the 2024 July Fourth weekend, and those records might be broken again in 2025.

According to a new forecast from AAA, a record 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, July 6. That’s a 2.4% increase over 2024, with both road and air travel expected to reach all-time highs.

But some days of the holiday week are less crowded (and cheaper) than others. If you can be flexible with your travel schedule and fly out on one of those less-crowded days, you could save money and avoid peak airport chaos.

Here’s what you need to know to fly smarter over the Independence Day travel window in 2025 — and potentially save money on airfare.

The best and worst days to fly over Fourth of July weekend in 2025

NerdWallet analyzed airfare price data provided by Expedia and TSA data showing the number of passengers screened at its U.S. checkpoints to predict the best and worst days to fly for July Fourth. We focused on a 15-day period including the week leading up to Independence Day, the holiday itself and the week following it. Here’s what you can expect in 2025.

The worst day to fly on or before Fourth of July

Friday, June 27: To avoid crowds and save money, don’t fly the Friday before. Last year, the Friday before July Fourth was the busiest travel day in the week preceding the holiday.

Expedia expects that Friday, June 27, will be the most expensive day to fly in the seven-day window ahead of July Fourth.

The worst days to fly after Fourth of July

Sunday, July 6: For post-holiday travel, the Sunday after Fourth of July ranks as the busiest day to fly. In 2024, the Sunday after the holiday, July 7, marked the first time more than 3 million people passed through TSA checkpoints in a single day. About 36% more people passed through airports on that day compared to Fourth of July.

We expect similar patterns with a Friday holiday as people look to return home from the long weekend.

Friday, July 11: Along with July 6, this is one of the two most expensive days to fly in the seven-day period after July Fourth, according to Expedia. TSA data from the past six years shows that Fridays are typically the busiest day of the week throughout the year, so it’s no surprise that prices will be high.

The best days to fly on or before Fourth of July

Friday, July 4: Typically, Independence Day is the least busy day to fly. We expect that pattern to hold, even though the holiday falls on a Friday this year — and Fridays are typically busy days for flying. Last year, airport crowds on July Fourth were 24% smaller than they were on the busiest travel day in the week ahead of the holiday, which was the Friday before.

Fourth of July is also one of the cheapest days to fly in the week leading up to the holiday, according to Expedia — a sign of lower demand.

Monday, June 30: If you’d rather spend July Fourth celebrating — and not in an airport — turn to Monday, June 30. According to Expedia, Monday, June 30, will be the cheapest day to fly in the week leading up to the holiday. Booking a flight on this date gives you a head start on your vacation while avoiding the higher prices seen later in the week.

The best days to fly after Fourth of July

Monday, July 7, and Tuesday, July 8: These are the two cheapest dates to fly in the week after the holiday, according to Expedia. In general, Tuesday is also the least busy day on average at airports, according to a NerdWallet analysis of TSA data over the past six years.

Optimize your Fourth of July itinerary

Avoid the July Fourth crowds and save money by traveling during less-crowded times.

For longer trips, fly earlier in the week. If you want to extend your trip, consider leaving on Monday or Tuesday ahead of the holiday, rather than Friday, June 27. For your return trip, try flying out on Monday or Tuesday following the holiday weekend.

Travel on July Fourth. Whether you’re arriving home or jetting off, flying early in the day on July Fourth might be a smart move. About 86% of flights departing between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. from major airports left on time, compared to just 71% of flights departing between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m., according to Department of Transportation data from December 2024, the most recent data available.