Fourth of July Travel Trends: Gas Prices Up, Record Numbers Expected

Get ready for the Fourth of July with higher gas prices across the US. Record-breaking travel numbers forecasted, with tips to navigate peak times.

The upcoming Fourth of July holiday is approaching, and with it, a surge in travel across America. As Americans prepare to hit the road, they should brace for higher fuel prices.

AAA reports that the national average for a gallon of gasoline is currently $3.491, up about five cents from last week. Despite this increase, prices remain lower than they were at this time last year, when regular unleaded averaged $3.538 per gallon.

Gas prices vary significantly by region. In California, residents are facing an average of $4.794 per gallon, placing them at the top alongside Hawaii ($4.696) and Washington ($4.316). Conversely, the states with the least expensive gas include Mississippi ($2.937), Louisiana ($3.005), and Arkansas ($3.053).

Looking ahead to the holiday itself, an estimated 70.9 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home, making it one of the busiest Fourth of July holidays on record, surpassing last year’s 67.4 million travelers.

Of those traveling, a record-breaking 60.6 million are expected to go by car, marking a 2.8 million increase from the previous year. Notably, travel congestion is anticipated on July 3rd and July 7th, particularly between 2-8 PM. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly by departing early or late to avoid peak traffic hours.

For those opting to fly, airports will also be bustling, with a record 5.74 million people expected to take to the skies during the holiday, a 7% increase from last year and 12% from 2019.

According to AAA, popular destinations this year include Florida’s cities such as Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale, as well as Honolulu, New York, and Anchorage, favored for their cruise departures.