AAA has announced that it expects an impressive 72.2 million individuals to travel at least 50 miles from home during the Independence Day holiday period, from June 28 to July 6, 2025. This marks an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year and suggests a rebound in travel habits, with 7 million more people hitting the road than in 2019.
Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel, noted the significance of the upcoming holiday, stating, “Summertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, and July 4th is one of the most popular times to get away.” The holiday falling on a Friday this year allows for extended travel opportunities, either as a long weekend or a full week of adventures.
The majority of travelers—approximately 61.6 million—are expected to travel by car, reflecting a 2.2% increase from last year and the highest volume on record. To ensure a smooth journey, AAA advises travelers to perform vehicle maintenance and prepare an emergency kit, as nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls were made last July 4th week for issues such as dead batteries and flat tires.
Despite slight increases in gas prices due to current global events, prices remain lower than in recent years, providing some relief to drivers. The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict has created fluctuations; however, the crude oil market remains stable overall, allowing gas prices to stay manageable for travelers.
Air travel is also seeing a surge, with AAA forecasting 5.84 million individuals will fly to their destinations, an increase over last year’s record. Domestic flights average about $810 roundtrip, reflecting a 4% price hike from last year.
The anticipated growth in travel spans various modes, with bus, train, and cruise travel increasing by 7.4%, buoyed by the popularity of Alaska cruises this season.
Top destinations include Orlando, Denver, Boston, and international locations, such as Vancouver and Paris. Notably, Alaska cruises are in high demand, showcasing travelers’ desire for scenic and memorable experiences during the holiday.
AAA also provided insights into peak travel times, indicating that July 2 and July 6 will be the busiest travel days, with afternoon congestion expected. Early morning travel is recommended for those wishing to avoid heavy traffic.
In answering the growing interest in travel, AAA remains committed to enriching the experiences of its members and is keen to assist those planning their Independence Day getaways. This growth in travel is a positive indicator of the continued recovery in the tourism sector, suggesting that people are eager to reconnect with loved ones and explore new destinations this coming summer.