Ultimate Fourth of July Travel Tips: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Weekend, Whether Driving or Flying!

This year’s Fourth of July is shaping up to be quite a spectacle as it falls on a Friday, making it a perfect long weekend for many. AAA predicts that a whopping 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home between June 28 and July 6. That’s an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year.

It’s no surprise that July 4th is one of the busiest travel days. Stacey Barber from AAA Travel notes, “This holiday allows families to create lasting memories, whether it’s for a long weekend or an entire week.”

Traveling by Car

Most travelers, about 61.6 million, will be hitting the road. If you’re one of them, keep this in mind: traffic is expected to peak on Wednesday, July 2, and Sunday, July 6, particularly in the afternoons. INRIX, a transportation analytics company, suggests that the best time to drive is early, before noon on weekdays or before 11 a.m. on weekends.

If you’re renting a car, plan for busy pick-up days, especially July 3. To avoid issues, AAA advises ensuring your vehicle is road-ready. This means checking tires, brakes, and fluids. It’s also wise to pack an emergency kit including a first-aid kit, water, snacks, and tools so you’re prepared.

Interestingly, while summer gas prices are the lowest since 2021, it doesn’t hurt to plan your refueling stops. Useful websites like TollGuru and GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest spots.

Air Travel Insights

If you’re flying, brace yourself! The TSA expects to screen about 18.5 million travelers from July 1 to 7, with the busiest day being July 6, anticipating 2.9 million passengers at checkpoints. TSA recommends checking their travel checklist to save time and packing your patience, especially during peak times.

Airlines advise downloading their apps for real-time updates and reserving parking in advance. The busiest airports are Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, Chicago O’Hare, and Los Angeles. For those looking to avoid delays, flying earlier in the morning is usually a smart move.

Hotel Stays

For lodging, popular destinations this year include Orlando, Seattle, New York City, and more. If you’re worried about finding a room, don’t fret. Major cities often drop prices as check-in times get closer in order to fill vacancies. Booking 12 to 48 hours in advance could score you a deal.

Safety First

Whether driving or flying, your safety should come first. The summer traffic can often lead to accidents. Last year, AAA reported nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls over the July 4th week alone. Plan for breaks every couple of hours or 100 miles.

Dieringer from Allstate emphasizes, “Half of roadside emergencies don’t need a tow.” If you find yourself in a bind, someone with the right tools can usually help get you back on the road.

With travel numbers soaring, being informed and prepared can make your Fourth of July holiday a memorable one. Enjoy your well-deserved break!

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