A record-breaking number of Americans are expected to travel over the Independence Day holiday, according to the AAA.
The organization predicts between June 28 and July 6, 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles or more from home.
This year’s domestic travel forecast is an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year and seven million more than in 2019.
“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.”
The AAA predicts 61.6 million people will travel by car, a 2.2% increase over last year, and the highest volume on record. Drivers are urged to get routine vehicle maintenance ahead of any trips and pack an emergency kit.
Traffic data company Inrix, believes Wednesday, July 2 and Sunday, July 6 will be the busiest days on the road and is advising drivers to travel in the morning to avoid the worst traffic.
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 – 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.
Travel by other modes is also 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.
