Anticipated Surge in Fourth of July Travel: AAA Predicts Record-Breaking Number of Americans on the Move
According to a report by AAA, an estimated 50.7 million Americans are expected to embark on journeys of 50 miles or more from their homes during the upcoming Fourth of July weekend. This projection surpasses the previous record set in 2019, which saw 49 million travelers during the Independence Day holiday.
AAA Senior Vice President Paula Twidale expressed astonishment at the projected travel numbers, stating, “We’ve never projected travel numbers this high for Independence Day weekend.” Despite limited inventory and prices that are 50% higher, Twidale noted that consumers are not scaling back on their travel plans this summer. Many individuals have taken heed of advice to book early, reflecting the strong demand for travel.
Notably, this year is expected to witness a significant increase of 2.1 million more domestic travelers compared to the previous year’s figures for the July 4th weekend.
Furthermore, AAA reported that approximately 43.2 million people will opt for driving as their mode of transportation, marking a 2.4% increase from 2022 and a 4% surge from 2019.
Travelers may find some relief at the gas pump during their journeys. AAA’s report highlighted the favorable gas prices compared to the previous year, stating, “This summer, gas prices are well below what they were one year ago.” The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $4.80 on July 4th, 2022. Thanks to the lower cost of oil, gas prices have remained relatively steady in recent months, with the national average hovering around $3.50 to $3.60 per gallon.
For those seeking to minimize overall travel expenses this summer, considering a switch in auto insurance providers may be beneficial. Credible offers a platform to compare quotes from multiple companies without impacting your credit score.
Optimal Travel Times for the Fourth of July Weekend: INRIX Provides Insights
To navigate the Fourth of July weekend with minimal traffic congestion, transportation data provider INRIX suggests that drivers embark on their journeys in the morning or after 6 p.m.
Based on INRIX’s analysis, here are the recommended and least favorable travel times for each day of the Independence Day weekend:
Thursday, June 29: Worst travel time: 4 to 6 p.m. Best travel time: Before noon
Friday, June 30: Worst travel time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Best travel time: Before 10 a.m., After 6 p.m.
Saturday, July 1: Worst travel time: 1 p.m. Best travel time: Before noon
Sunday, July 2: Minimal traffic impact expected
Monday, July 3: Minimal traffic impact expected
Tuesday, July 4: Worst travel time: Noon to 3 p.m. Best travel time: Before 11 a.m., After 6 p.m.
INRIX anticipates Friday, June 30, to be the busiest day on the roads during the Fourth of July weekend, with travel times expected to increase by nearly 30% compared to regular days.
Cities such as Boston, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. are predicted to experience the most significant traffic congestion, according to INRIX.
Bob Pishue, Transportation Analyst at INRIX, advised drivers to utilize traffic apps, local Department of Transportation notifications, and 511 services to minimize travel frustrations and delays during this holiday weekend.
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