With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, Americans are gearing up for extended trips around the Independence Day holiday weekend, from June 28th to July 8th. This year’s holiday is expected to be the busiest ever, with record-breaking travel numbers anticipated, according to Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. AAA projects a staggering 70.9 million travelers will venture 50 miles or more from home during the Independence Day holiday period, representing a 5% increase from 2023 and an 8% rise from 2019.
“We anticipate this July 4th week will be the busiest ever, with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019,” Twidale stated. This surge in travel is attributed to factors such as the long holiday weekend, increased flexibility in remote work, and lower gas prices. The majority of travelers, an estimated 60.6 million, are expected to journey by car, exceeding the 55.3 million who did so in 2019. This increase of 2.8 million travelers from last year underscores the enduring popularity of road trips. Major cities like Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are experiencing the highest demand for car rentals, with peak pick-up days projected to be June 28, June 29, and July 3. Current gas prices are lower than last year’s national average of $3.53 and are expected to continue dropping leading up to Independence Day. However, the ongoing hurricane season could impact gas prices if storms affect Gulf Coast oil production and refining centers.
AAA also forecasts a record number of air travelers, with 5.74 million people expected to fly, marking a nearly 7% increase from last year and a 12% rise from 2019. Domestic airfare is 2% cheaper this Independence Day week, averaging $800 for a roundtrip ticket. To ensure a smooth travel experience, AAA recommends arriving at airports two hours early, reserving parking, and using carry-on luggage to save time and money. Airports are anticipated to be extremely busy.
In addition to air and road travel, 4.6 million people are expected to travel by buses, cruises, and trains, reflecting a 9% increase from last year. Alaska cruises are particularly popular, with Seattle and Anchorage being top destinations. As the United States prepares to celebrate Independence Day, the nation’s airlines are rolling out an array of initiatives designed to boost domestic tourism. From special flight deals to enhanced in-flight experiences, these efforts are aimed at encouraging Americans to explore the beauty and diversity of their own country. To entice travelers, major US airlines are offering significant discounts and special deals on flights across the country. Airlines such as Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines have launched promotional campaigns featuring reduced fares to popular destinations. These deals are particularly attractive for families and groups looking to travel together during the long holiday weekend.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is bracing for what is anticipated to be the busiest summer travel season in its history. From Wednesday, July 3 through Monday, July 8, the airport is expected to welcome approximately 1.5 million travelers. This marks a significant 5.5 percent increase compared to the same period last year, coinciding with the Independence Day holiday rush. With this surge in passenger volume, DFW is preparing for a bustling and dynamic week ahead, highlighting the growing demand for air travel during peak vacation periods.
