BOISE – As 410,000 Idahoans set out on a 4th of July vacation, AAA warns travelers to expect record crowds both on the roads and at the airport.
Overall, 72.2 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more for the holiday – 1.7 million people more than just a year ago. Today and Sunday are expected to be the worst days for traffic. AAA recommends getting an early jump on your travel day to avoid the heaviest congestion.
“Gas prices are trending a bit higher in recent weeks, but travelers won’t hesitate to gather with loved ones for good food and fireworks,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Just remember that however you travel, you’re going to have to pack your patience.”
Today’s price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $3.43, which is the same as a week ago and 12 cents more than a month ago, but 17 cents less than a year ago. Meanwhile, the national average is at $3.17 per gallon, which is five cents less than a week ago, three cents more than a month ago, and 33 cents less than a year ago.
Here’s a seven-year look at Independence Day gas prices:
| YEAR | IDAHO | U.S. |
| 2024 | $3.60 | $3.52 |
| 2023 | $3.96 | $3.53 |
| 2022 | $5.25 | $4.81 |
| 2021 | $3.49 | $3.15 |
| 2020 | $2.34 | $2.18 |
| 2019 | $2.99 | $2.76 |
| 2018 | $3.16 | $2.87 |
Based on AAA booking data, travelers are saving an average of 11% on domestic hotel stays and 2% on car rentals when compared to a year ago. However, the average domestic flight is about 4% more expensive, while cruises departing from U.S. cities are 40% more expensive than a year ago.
The top destinations for Idahoans this year include Anaheim, Las Vegas, Yellowstone National Park, Hawaii, and Salt Lake City.
“This is also a very busy weekend for motorcycle and RV travel,” Conde said. “Watch for motorcyclists and be mindful that you could experience delays while driving on two-lane roads, as slower vehicles may create a little bit of a logjam.”
AAA urges drivers to get plenty of sleep before they hit the road, ditch the distractions, never drive impaired, and insist on everyone wearing a seat belt.
Emergency kit essentials
“You hope you’ll never need it, but if trouble strikes, you’ll be glad you have it,” Conde said.
A typical emergency kit includes:
- A first aid kit
- Basic tools
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Water and protein snacks
- Flares or reflectors
“A tarp can provide instant shade if you need it, and an old towel can protect you from hot asphalt if you need to look under your vehicle or change a tire,” Conde said. “Don’t forget to bring along some fun stuff – a deck of cards, a frisbee, or anything that can help you pass the time while you’re waiting for the fireworks to begin.”
For additional inspiration and helpful information, explore our AAA TourBooks, the AAA mobile app, and AAA Trip Canvas.