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Fourth of July travel expected to break records, AAA says
AAA projected that more than 72 million people will travel for the holiday. About 87 percent of those in the state are expected to drive. AAA said the week leading up to July 4 will be the summer’s busiest. For real-time traffic updates, keep the Channel 3 First Alert Traffic map handy.
AAA expected the Independence Day travel period to be the busiest in recent years.
AAA projected that more than 72 million people will travel for the holiday, including nearly 900,000 from Connecticut. About 87 percent of those in the state are expected to drive.
“Travel isn’t just an economic and practical decision, it’s also an emotional decision,” said AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz. “We’re seeing travel in record numbers because people want to get away and not be home. And they don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money to do that.”
While Memorial Day and Labor Day are typically heavy travel times, , AAA said the week leading up to July 4 will be the summer’s busiest.
For those driving, experts recommended staying alert, staying hydrated, planning rest stops ahead of time, and avoiding peak traffic periods when possible.
Travelers can expect full highways, increased demand at rest areas, and delays near popular destinations.
For real-time traffic updates, keep the Channel 3 First Alert Traffic map handy. See it here.
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Record 72.2 Million Americans Expected to Travel Domestically July 4th Week
AAA projects 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday period from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6. This year’s domestic travel forecast is an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year and 7 million more than in 2019. AAA recommends getting routine vehicle maintenance ahead of your trip and packing an emergency kit. The number of people traveling by air is also projected to set a new record, with 5.84 million travelers expected to fly to their destinations. A roundtrip domestic flight is averaging $810, 4% more expensive than last year. The price of crude oil has kept gas prices on the lower side, but the Israel Iran conflict has driven up the price of oil in recent days. The Atlantic hurricane season is underway, and NOAA predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season. Florida, Hawaii and New York are in high demand for their resorts and attractions, and Vancouver tops the most popular fireworks in the nation.
“Summertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, and July 4th is one of the most popular times to get away,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “Following Memorial Day’s record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week. With the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends.”
Independence Day Travelers by Mode of Transportation
By Car: AAA projects 61.6 million people will travel by car, a 2.2% increase over last year, and the highest volume on record. This Independence Day holiday period is expected to see an additional 1.3 million road travelers compared to 2024. AAA recommends getting routine vehicle maintenance ahead of your trip and packing an emergency kit. Last July 4th week, AAA responded to nearly 700,000 emergency roadside assistance calls for issues like dead batteries and flat tires, plus people locking themselves out of their car or running out of gas.
Drivers are seeing some increases at the pump, but summer gas prices are still the lowest they’ve been since 2021. This year, the price of crude oil has kept gas prices on the lower side. The Israel Iran conflict has driven up the price of oil in recent days but not dramatically. Escalation and duration of the conflict are two factors to watch. Weather is also a wild card. The Atlantic hurricane season is underway, and NOAA predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season. Storms along the Gulf Coast can affect oil refineries and disrupt fuel deliveries, leading to a temporary increase in gas prices.
For travelers who are renting cars, AAA car rental partner Hertz says Thursday, July 3rd is expected to be the busiest day to pick up vehicles. Some of the top destinations based on advanced bookings are also on AAA’s list of most popular places to visit over July 4th: Orlando, Denver, Boston, Oahu, and Seattle. Hertz says most drivers are looking to rent SUVs and midsize sedans.
AAA Trip Canvas Inspiration: Pack up the car and take a road trip to one of the 10 Best National Parks to Visit in the Summer.
By Air: The number of people traveling by air is also projected to set a new record. AAA expects 5.84 million travelers will fly to their destinations; that’s 8% of all Independence Day travelers. This year’s projection is a 1.4% increase over the previous record set last Independence Day week of 5.76 million air travelers.
According to AAA data, which is based on what travelers paid when they booked their July 4th trips, a roundtrip domestic flight is averaging $810, 4% more expensive than last year. When booking last-minute flights for summer trips, consider flying on weekdays like Tuesdays or Wednesdays for the best deals.
AAA Trip Canvas Inspiration: Still debating where to take the kids this summer? Check out 17 Best Vacation Spots for Families.
By Other Modes: Travel by other modes is expected to grow by 7.4% over last year. AAA projects 4.78 million people will travel by bus, train, or cruise. This year’s number is just shy of the 2019 record of 4.79 million. Cruising is driving the popularity of this category, particularly this time of year, when Alaska cruise season is in full swing.
AAA Trip Canvas Inspiration: Missed the boat this summer? Start planning now for your Alaska cruise next year! Here are The 9 Best Alaska Cruises for Every Traveler.
AAA’s Top Independence Day Destinations
The top holiday destinations listed below are based on AAA booking data for the Independence Day travel period. Cruises, beaches, and fireworks are the main motivators for travelers heading to these cities. Alaska cruises are in peak season, Florida and Hawaii are in high demand for their resorts and attractions, and New York and Boston host two of the most popular fireworks shows in the nation. Internationally, Vancouver tops the list followed by Europe’s most in-demand cities during the summer.
DOMESTIC INTERNATIONAL ORLANDO, FL VANCOUVER, CANADA SEATTLE, WA ROME, ITALY NEW YORK, NY PARIS, FRANCE ANCHORAGE, AK LONDON, ENGLAND FORT LAUDERDALE, FL BARCELONA, SPAIN HONOLULU, HI DUBLIN, IRELAND DENVER, CO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS MIAMI, FL CALGARY, CANADA BOSTON, MA ATHENS, GREECE ATLANTA, GA LISBON, PORTUGAL
Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, expects Wednesday, July 2 and Sunday, July 6 to be the busiest days on the road. Afternoon hours will be the most congested. Drivers should hit the road in the morning to avoid the worst traffic, but keep in mind construction, crashes, or severe weather could impact travel times. Watch for stopped vehicles and Slow Down, Move Over for emergency responders.
Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located. For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.
Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car Date Worst Travel Time Best Travel Time Saturday, Jun 28 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Before 10:00 AM Sunday, Jun 29 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Before 11:00 AM Monday, Jun 30 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Tuesday, Jul 01 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 2:00 PM Wednesday, Jul 02 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Thursday, Jul 03 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Friday, Jul 04 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Saturday, Jul 05 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Before 11:00 AM Sunday, Jul 06 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 11:00 AM
SOURCE: INRIX
City Trip Type From To Road Day Time Atlanta Departing Atlanta Birmingham I-20 W Sun. 29th 12:15 PM Returning Savannah Atlanta I-16 W Sun. 6th 2:30 PM Boston Departing Boston Hyannis Route 3 S Sat. 28th 10:45 AM Returning Hyannis Boston Route 3 N Sat. 5th 11:45 AM Chicago Departing Chicago Indianapolis I-65 S Wed. 2nd 6:00 PM Returning Milwaukee Chicago I-94 E Sun. 6th 2:30 PM Denver Departing Denver Fort Collins I-25 N Mon. 30th 1:45 PM Returning Fort Collins Denver I-25 S Sat. 5th 6:30 PM Detroit Departing Detroit Toronto I-94 E Thu. 3rd 3:00 PM Returning Grand Rapids Detroit I-96 E Sat. 5th 1:30 PM Houston Departing Houston Galveston I-45 S Sat. 28th 11:15 AM Returning Galveston Houston I-45 N Sun. 6th 11:45 AM Los Angeles Departing Los Angeles San Diego I-5 S Sat. 28th 5:00 PM Returning Las Vegas Los Angeles I-15 S Sun. 6th 5:00 PM Minneapolis Departing Minneapolis Eau Claire I-94 E Sun. 29th 2:00 PM Returning Eau Claire Minneapolis I-94 W Sun. 6th 3:45 PM New York Departing New York Jersey Shore Garden State Pkwy S Tue. 1st 4:30 PM Returning Albany New York I-87 S Sun. 6th 4:15 PM Philadelphia Departing Philadelphia Rehoboth Beach I-95 & Route 13 Sat. 28th 10:45 AM Returning Poconos Philadelphia I-76/I-476 PA Tpke Sun. 6th 1:15 PM Portland Departing Portland Eugene I-5 S Wed. 2nd 5:00 PM Returning Eugene Portland I-5 N Sun. 6th 4:45 PM San Diego Departing San Diego Palm Springs I-15 N Wed. 2nd 5:45 PM Returning Palm Springs San Diego I-15 S Sat. 5th 3:00 PM San Francisco Departing San Francisco Sacramento I-80 E Wed. 2nd 5:30 PM Returning Sacramento San Francisco I-80 W Sun. 6th 4:30 PM Seattle Departing Seattle Ocean Shores I-5 S Wed. 2nd 5:45 PM Returning Ellensburg Seattle I-90 E Sun. 6th 4:30 PM Tampa Departing Tampa Orlando I-4 E Wed. 2nd 2:30 PM Returning Orlando Tampa I-4 W Fri. 4th 3:45 PM Washington, DC Departing Washington, DC Annapolis US-50 E Sat. 28th 1:45 PM Returning Annapolis Washington, DC US-50 W Fri. 4th 11:30 AM
SOURCE: INRIX
Holiday Forecast Methodology
Travel Forecast
In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.
Historical travel volume estimates come from MMGY’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM. The PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. MMGY contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, forecast U.S. travel behavior and position brand, all after the trips have been taken.
The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of May 19, 2025.
Because AAA holiday forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes, whether traveling for work or leisure. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors.
Independence Day Holiday Travel Period
The Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as the nine-day period from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6. Historically, this holiday period included only one weekend. The expanded travel window was instituted starting in 2024 with historical results calculated back to 2019 using the new nine-day period.
About AAA
Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services – all to enhance the life journey of our 65+ million members across North America, including nearly 58 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or become a member, visit AAA.com.
About S&P Global
S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today. For more information, visit www.spglobal.com.
About MMGY
MMGY Global is the world’s leading integrated marketing firm specializing in the travel, hospitality, and lifestyle industries. With operating brands around the world, the award-winning organization maintains a global communications practice in all marketing channels, serving many of the world’s premier travel and tourism brands. As a company dedicated to the travel industry, MMGY Global strives to create a connected, inclusive, and peaceful world by promoting travel as a cultural bridge of understanding. For more information, visit www.mmgyglobal.com.
About INRIX
Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.
Experts projecting record travel numbers for July 4 weekend | Here’s what authorities had to say
Georgia State Patrol vows to increase highway enforcement for record July 4th travel period. Of the projected travelers, 61.6 million people will travel by car between June 28 and July 6. The surge in holiday travel comes as gas prices hit their lowest levels for the Fourth of July since 2021. A tropical disturbance is expected to stall off the southeastern coast late this week, potentially bringing heavy rain to Florida and South Georgia during the holiday weekend.”Drive like that car beside you is your grandmother. Treat them with the same respect that you would give your grandmother,” said Sgt. Asher Gray with Georgia State Patrol. “Even if you have it up on the mount, if you’ve got that video going, it is illegal,” Gray said. “I’ve stopped here recently, a lot more people watching videos on their phones and not understanding that that is illegal”
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MACON, Ga. — A record-breaking 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during this year’s Fourth of July holiday period, according to AAA projections, marking the highest number ever recorded for Independence Day travel.
The surge in holiday travel comes as gas prices hit their lowest levels for the Fourth of July since 2021, with the national average sitting at $3.18 per gallon. In the Macon area, drivers are paying an average of $2.94 per gallon as of Tuesday, according to AAA.
Of the projected travelers, 61.6 million people will travel by car between June 28 and July 6, setting a new record for road trips over the holiday period. This represents a 2.2% increase from 2024 numbers.
Georgia State Patrol is responding to the expected traffic surge by deploying all available troopers across the state’s highways and back roads.
“We’re gonna have an increase in the amount of traffic on the roadways, so with that we’re gonna have an increased presence of troopers on the roadways,” said Sgt. Asher Gray with Georgia State Patrol.
The enhanced enforcement will target speeders, distracted drivers, seatbelt violations and aggressive driving. Troopers will be positioned on interstates, state routes and county roads, with some stationed on highway overpasses conducting radar enforcement.
“Majority of our fatalities in the state occur on the state routes and county roads, so we’ve got to show our presence out there as well,” Gray said.
One growing concern for law enforcement is distracted driving, particularly drivers watching videos on their mobile devices.
“I’ve stopped here recently, a lot more people watching videos on their phones and not understanding that that is illegal,” Gray said. “Even if you have it up on the mount, if you’ve got that video going, it is illegal.”
Seatbelt compliance remains another major safety focus, with approximately 60% of traffic fatalities involving unbelted occupants.
For travelers already on the road, the increased traffic is becoming noticeable. Tom Eckert, driving from Wisconsin to Sarasota, Florida, said he carefully plans his routes to avoid the worst congestion.
“We plan our routes out pretty carefully. Use all of the apps for that plus our own experience over the years because we do a lot of trips,” Eckert said.
He specifically avoids Atlanta traffic, noting how many areas on their highways create bottlenecks.
Vickie McEvers, traveling with children from Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains to Daytona Beach, had to adjust her route due to construction and weather-related road closures.
“Our route was supposed to be a different way, down Highway 40, but then the mudslide and then they reopened it and then 26 is all under construction, so we’re actually going 45 minutes out of our way,” McEvers said.
Despite the longer route, McEvers said gas prices won’t deter her family’s travel plans.
“We don’t pay attention to gas prices. If you want to go, you got to go. It’s just part of the added expense, so you pack food in the car and peanut butter and jellies and you just adjust,” she said.
The economic impact of lower gas prices is significant, with Americans expected to spend approximately $500 million less on fuel this Fourth of July compared to last year, according to GasBuddy.
However, weather could complicate travel plans. A tropical disturbance is expected to stall off the southeastern coast late this week, potentially bringing heavy rain to Florida and South Georgia during the holiday weekend.
State patrol officials recommend travelers leave early to avoid the worst congestion and treat other drivers with respect.
“Drive like that car beside you is your grandmother. Treat them with the same respect that you would give your grandmother,” Gray said.
Fourth of July travel expected to set new records, AAA predicts – NBC Los Angeles
More than 72 million Americans are expected to travel domestically for Independence Day this year, AAA projected on Friday. AAA projects 61.6 million people will travel by car. Summer gas prices are the lowest they’ve been since 2021, but AAA says the Israel-Iran conflict in the Middle East, as well as weather, could impact how much travelers have to spend at the pump. Orlando tops the list of U.S. destinations for the Fourth of July, while Vancouver is No. 1 among cities Americans will visit overseas, according to AAA.Starting May 7, all U.s. travelers will be required to show a Real ID to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities. The holiday falls on a Friday, so travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week.
More than 72 million Americans are expected to travel domestically for Independence Day this year, AAA projected on Friday. The number counts people who are expected to go at least 50 miles away from home between Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, July 6.
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AAA’s projection of 72.2 million travelers is an increase of 1.7 million people from 2024 and 7 million more than the last pre-pandemic Fourth of July in 2019.
After forecasting record travel for Memorial Day, AAA projects the trend to continue for the next seasonal holiday.
“Summertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, and July 4th is one of the most popular times to get away,” Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, said. “Following Memorial Day’s record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week. With the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends.”
AAA projects 61.6 million people will travel by car. Summer gas prices are the lowest they’ve been since 2021, but AAA says the Israel-Iran conflict in the Middle East, as well as weather, could impact how much travelers have to spend at the pump.
When it comes to other modes of transportation, AAA predicts 5.84 million people will fly and 4.78 million people will travel by bus, train or cruise for the Fourth of July.
Best and worst times to travel for the Fourth of July
Here’s a breakdown of the best times to travel by car for the Fourth of July holiday period, according to AAA:
Date Worst travel time Best travel time Saturday, June 28 12-5 p.m. Before 10 a.m. Sunday, June 29 2-4 p.m. Before 11 a.m. Monday, June 30 2-6 p.m. Before 12 p.m. Tuesday, July 1 3-6 p.m. Before 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 2 12-9 p.m. Before 12 p.m. Thursday, July 3 2-6 p.m. Before 12 p.m. Friday, July 4 12-7 p.m. Before 12 p.m. Saturday, July 5 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Before 11 a.m. Sunday, July 6 12-6 p.m. Before 11 a.m.
Top Fourth of July travel destinations
Orlando tops the list of U.S. destinations for the Fourth of July, while Vancouver is No. 1 among cities Americans will visit overseas, according to AAA:
Domestic International/Caribbean Orlando, Florida Vancouver, Canada Seattle, Washington Rome, Italy New York, New York Paris, France Anchorage, Alaska London, England Fort Lauderdale, Florida Barcelona, Spain Honolulu, Hawaii Dublin, Ireland Denver, Colorado Amsterdam, Netherlands Miami, Florida Calgary, Canada Boston, Massachusetts Athens, Greece Atlanta, Georgia Lisbon, Portugal
Starting May 7, all U.S. travelers will be required to show a Real ID to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities.
Record Memorial Day weekend travel numbers expected, most driving
AAA projects 45.1 million Americans will travel domestically over Memorial Day weekend. Most people will drive to their destinations, setting a new record for car travel for the holiday with 39.4 million travelers. GasBuddy forecasts the national average price of a gallon of gas on Memorial Day to be $3.08. AAA said the best time to leave on Friday is before 11 a.m., with the worst time being between 12 p.m. and 8 p. m. on Saturday. On Sunday, AAA said drivers should leave before 1 p.M. and steer clear of traveling between 1 and 5 p. M.
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ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Get ready for the busiest Memorial Day weekend since 2005. AAA anticipates 45.1 million people will travel at least 50 miles from their home between Thursday, May 22 and Monday, May 26.
AAA said the previous record was set back in 2005 at 44 million people.
They said the overwhelming majority will be driving.
Their forecasts predict 39.4 million people will be driving to their destinations, making up 87.4% of all Memorial Day weekend travelers and marking an increase from last year.
The good news is that drivers can expect to see lower gas prices.
The fuel tracker GasBuddy forecasts the national average price of a gallon of gas on Memorial Day to be $3.08, which is 50 cents lower than last Memorial Day.
Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy Head of Petroleum Analysis: “As goes the economy, as go gas prices. Right now with the threat of tariffs and economic uncertainty, oil prices have faltered a bit based on the fact that a slowdown in the US economy would also mean a slowdown in consumption,” GasBuddy’s Head of Petroleum Analysis, Patrick De Haan, told CNN.
AAA projects 45.1 million Americans will travel domestically over Memorial Day weekend. Most people will drive to their destinations, setting a new record for car travel for the holiday with 39.4 million travelers.https://t.co/f90s4PamE5 — AAA (@AAAnews) May 12, 2025
A AAA spokesperson said these prices are atypical for the season.
“Typically this is the time of year when we would see higher gas prices because the summer driving season is gonna increase demand, but we’re still paying less because of those lower crude oil prices,” AAA Spokesperson Aixa Diaz told CNN.
AAA said the best time to leave on Friday is before 11 a.m., with the worst time being between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Their records predicted peak congestion in the Washington, D.C. metro area to be Thursday at 3:45 p.m.
On Saturday, May 24, AAA predicts the worst travel time to be between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and the best time before 12 p.m.
On Sunday, AAA said drivers should leave before 1 p.m. and steer clear of traveling between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
On Monday (Memorial Day), AAA suggests hitting the roads before 2 p.m. and avoiding 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/News/video/labor-day-travel-expected-set-new-record-124873494