Independence Day will be a banner travel holiday this year as 50 million Americans plan trips between Friday, June 30 and Tuesday, July 4, says AAA Northeast.
— an announcement from AAA Northeast and AAA
This year’s overall holiday travel volume will be the highest on record, surpassing pre-pandemic levels set in 2019 of 49 million travelers, said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman. “Car and air travel each will also set holiday records despite higher overall travel costs this year,” she said.
Of the overall, 5o.7 million travelers:
• 85% or 43.2 million people will travel by car, a 2.4% increase over last year.
• 8% or 4.17 million people will fly to destinations, an 11.2% increase over last year.
• 7% or 3.36 million people will travel by another mode of transportation, such as bus, cruise, or train, a whopping 24% increase over last year.
Photo by Max Titov on Unslplash.com
Although this picture shows traffic in Moscow, that is likely where July 4 holiday traffic will increase the least.
What’s driving this year’s record numbers? Lower unemployment, lower gas prices and higher spending levels, said Mayko. “We’re working more, earning more, and spending more so we’re traveling more,” she added.
This year, drivers are free of higher gas prices compared to last year when the national average for a gallon of self-serve regular reached $4.80 and the statewide average hit $4.78.
Today’s national average is $3.57, $1.33 less than last year; while in Connecticut, pump prices are averaging $3.64, $1.23 less than last year.
From the AAA website:
Best/Worst Times to Travel
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, expects Friday, June 30 to be the busiest day on the roads during the Independence Day holiday weekend, with average travel times up nearly 30% over normal.
Major metros like Boston, Seattle, and Washington, DC are expected to see the worst traffic.
INRIX recommends leaving in the morning or after 6 p.m. to avoid the heaviest holiday congestion.
Image from the AAA Website
EARLIER IS BETTER: Best and worst times to travel, from Thursday, July 29 to Wednesday, July 5.
“With record-breaking travelers expected on the road this holiday weekend, drivers should prepare for above-average delays to their favorite destinations,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Using traffic apps, local DOT notifications, and 511 services are key to minimizing holiday travel traffic frustrations this Independence Day.”
Summer Travel Trends and Tips
Travel demand has been steadily increasing since 2020, and this summer is poised to be one for the record books. Here are some trends and tips from AAA Travel.
FLYING
Air travel is seeing the biggest spike despite high ticket prices. Passengers are paying 40% – 50% more for flights compared to last year, but AAA data shows bookings aren’t slowing down. Many airlines are responding to demand by hiring more staff and taking smaller regional planes out of service and replacing them with larger ones to increase capacity. However, there are still challenges, including a shortage of air traffic controllers that has led to reduced service in and out of New York City area airports.
AAA Travel Tip: Avoid checking luggage to save time and money. Instead, travel with a carry-on bag to skip baggage claim and give yourself flexibility if your flight is delayed or canceled.
HOTELS
Hotel prices are up slightly over 2022, but not by much. While the number of domestic hotel bookings is about the same as last year, AAA data shows international hotel bookings are up 80% compared to 2022. International travel demand is booming and so are passport applications. The U.S. State Department says it’s processing half a million applications a week. Routine service is averaging 10-13 weeks.
AAA Travel Tip: Need a passport fast? RushMyPassport provides expedited services and discounts for AAA members. This past May, they handled more than 1,100 applications from AAA members, compared to just 73 applications in May of last year.
RENTING CARS
Car rental shortages seen during the pandemic have improved. Inventory has been increasing steadily since last year, with newer models and electric vehicles added to fleets. AAA data shows rental prices are down slightly from last year. Demand for international rental cars is up more than 80% compared to 2022.
AAA Travel Tip: If you’re planning to drive abroad, keep in mind some countries require International Driving Permits. AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs. This year, AAA reports demand for IDPs is double what it was in 2022.
CRUISES
Cruising is back to pre-pandemic numbers, with sold-out ships and advance bookings. Prices are about the same as 2022, with certain cruises a bit higher this year due to demand. Alaska cruises are particularly popular this time of year. AAA booking data also shows Caribbean cruises and European river cruises are top vacations in 2023.
AAA Travel Tip: Protect your investment with travel insurance. AAA data shows demand for travel insurance is up more than 100% over last year, as more travelers now see the need to prepare for the unexpected.