AAA estimates that 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home during the Independence Day holiday period, spanning Saturday, June 28, through Sunday, July 6.
This year’s domestic travel forecast is up by 1.7 million travelers compared to last year, and 7 million more than in 2019. AAA notes that its Independence Day projection now covers two weekends instead of one, to better capture the patterns of holiday travel.
AAA predicts that 61.6 million people will be traveling by car this Independence Day holiday, marking a 2.2 percent increase over last year and the highest number ever recorded.
Air travel is also expected to reach a new high, with AAA projecting 5.84 million people flying to their destinations—accounting for 8 percent of all Independence Day travelers. This represents a 1.4 percent increase over the previous record of 5.76 million air travelers set last Independence Day week.
Travel by other modes of transportation is expected to increase by 7.4 percent compared to last year, with AAA projecting 4.78 million people will travel by bus, train, or cruise. This year’s estimate is just below the 2019 record of 4.79 million. AAA officials noted the rise in this category is largely driven by the popularity of cruising, especially during the peak Alaska cruise season.
INRIX, a transportation data and insights provider, predicts that Wednesday, July 2 and Sunday, July 6 will be the busiest travel days on the road, with the heaviest congestion expected in the afternoon hours. Drivers are encouraged to begin their trips in the morning to avoid the worst traffic, but should remain mindful that construction, accidents, or severe weather could affect travel times. AAA officials said drivers should also be alert for stopped vehicles and remember to Slow Down and Move Over for emergency responders.
