US Sees Record-Breaking Travel Surge With Over 71 Million Americans Embark on Trip as Extended Summer Vacations Fueled by Remote Work and Independence Day Celebrations

Thursday, July 4, 2024

With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are planning extended trips around Independence Day Holiday Weekend from June 28- July 8. According to Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, this shift is expected to drive record-breaking travel numbers, making this year’s Independence Day the busiest ever.

AAA projects that 70.9 million travelers will venture 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday period. This projection includes the entire week of July 4th, along with the preceding Saturday and the following Sunday, marking 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.

Road Travel on the Rise

An estimated 60.6 million people are expected to travel by car, surpassing the 55.3 million who did so in 2019. This increase of 2.8 million travelers from last year highlights the popularity of road trips. Major cities like Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are seeing the highest demand for car rentals, with peak pick-up days projected to be June 28, June 29, and July 3.

Lower Gas Prices and Potential Impact

Current gas prices are lower than last year’s national average of $3.53, and they are expected to continue dropping leading up to Independence Day. However, the ongoing hurricane season could affect gas prices if storms impact Gulf Coast oil production and refining centers.

Record Air Travel Anticipated

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. Airports will be extremely busy, and AAA recommends arriving two hours early, reserving parking, and using carry-on luggage to save time and money.

Alternative Travel Modes

Additionally, 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.

US Airlines are Boosting Domestic Tourism During Independence Day Holiday with Delta, American and United Airlines

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.

Special Flight Deals and Discounts Boosting Air Travel in United States

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.

The US Independence Day parade is a cherished tradition celebrated in various cities across the United States of America. This year, numerous cities are gearing up to host spectacular parades, showcasing their unique local traditions and patriotic spirit. If you’re planning to travel for the 4th of July, this guide will help you discover the best Independence Day parades in the United States of America. From historic routes to vibrant street celebrations, these parades offer a glimpse into America’s rich cultural heritage and are a must-see for both domestic and international travelers.

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.