BOISE – If you’re planning a vacation for fireworks and fun, you won’t be alone. According to new projections by AAA, nearly 71 million Americans, including 400,000 Idahoans, will travel for the holiday – the highest volume on record and a 5% increase from a year ago.
In the Mountain region alone (AZ, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, UT, WY), 25.8 million people will travel.
The best times to go by car are by mid-morning each day or after 7 PM for most days of the holiday travel period. Not surprisingly, the worst time to drive is on the afternoon of July 3.
For the first time, AAA looked at the entire week of July 4th, including the Saturday before and the Sunday after the holiday, for an even more comprehensive outlook. This year’s total travel volume is an astonishing 8% higher than pre-pandemic levels.
“Using ‘record’ or ‘near record’ to describe our recent travel projections is beginning to feel a bit routine, but people continue to be very determined when it comes to making the most of their vacation opportunities,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Gas prices are much better than last year, so hopefully that means a few more burgers and hot dogs on the grill.”
Top travel destinations include Anaheim, Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Hawaii, Orlando, Anchorage, Salt Lake City, the Oregon Coast, and various National Parks, including Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
Travel by the numbers
About 60.6 million Americans will go by car, which is 2.8 million people more than a year ago.
While more than 85% of this year’s 4th of July travel will involve a road trip, air travel is also booming in popularity. 5.74 million people will take to the skies for the holiday, representing 8% of total travelers.
Other modes of travel, including cruises, buses, and trains, continue to make a strong recovery. At 4.6 million travelers, these modes are just 4% below pre-pandemic levels, and the last travel mode to fully rebound from the effects of the pandemic.
“No matter how you travel, you can expect busy roads, airports, and gangplanks,” Conde said. “Getting an early start on your day is critical to eliminating stress along your journey.”
How will Independence Day travel affect your wallet?
On average, domestic flights for the holiday are 2% cheaper than a year ago – around $800 for a roundtrip flight. Domestic car rentals are also about 16% cheaper than a year ago. On the other hand, domestic hotels are 17% more expensive than a year ago, with the average three-night stay approaching $660.
“The experts predict that consumer spending will increase about 5% from a year ago, but with any luck, cheaper gas prices will help ease the pain,” Conde said. “Some people may dial back on eating out if that’s what it takes to pull off a trip this year, but some of the best 4th of July gatherings happen in a family member’s yard anyway, so everyone should still have a great time.”
AAA to the rescue
AAA anticipates as many as 800,000 calls for roadside assistance over the holiday travel period, including nearly 1,700 service requests in Idaho. Please make sure engine belts and fluids and tires are in good working order before hitting the road.
“It’s not too late to get a pre-trip inspection from a trusted mechanic,” Conde said. “If your car battery is three years old or older, it’s going to be working extra hard as temperatures soar.”
Making the most of your trip
- Arrive at the airport at least two hours early. Use carry-on bags whenever possible. If you need to check a bag, pack important documents, medications, and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag. Download the airline app for flight updates and gate changes.
- Drive at times of the day when you’re normally awake. Never drive while drowsy or impaired.
- If you’re heading to a remote area, share your travel plans with loved ones who can act on your behalf if you fail to arrive.
- Bring plenty of water for people and pets or to top off a radiator.
- Avoid aggressive driving, including speeding, tailgating, and sudden lane changes.
- Delegate cell phone use (texting, talking, navigating) to a trusty co-pilot.