85% of Americans Will Travel by Car During the Fourth of July Weekend

With the start of summer comes one of the most important celebrations in the United States. This year, the nation is commemorating the 250th anniversary of its independence, and roadways are expected to experience exceptionally heavy traffic over the Fourth of July weekend.

If you’re planning to head to the beach, attend a fireworks show, or visit family and friends, be prepared for more congestion than usual. Planning your trip ahead of time will be key to navigating traffic and reaching your destination safely.

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), an estimated 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home to celebrate Independence Day between Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, July 5, with the vast majority traveling by car. Last year, 71.8 million Americans traveled during the summer holiday period.

85% of Americans Will Travel by Car During the Fourth of July Weekend

Approximately 61.4 million people are expected to travel by car during the Fourth of July holiday period, according to AAA. Although gas prices have reached their highest levels of the year, about 85% of Independence Day travelers will still choose to drive to their destinations.

“For many Americans, traveling during the Fourth of July week is a tradition,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. AAA’s travel forecast covers a nine-day period, from Saturday, June 27, through Sunday, July 5, including both travelers taking extended vacations and those making trips during the long holiday weekend. Historically, the holiday travel period only covered the weekend itself.

“While the total number of Independence Day travelers appears to have stabilized, we still expect record-breaking travel volumes this year,” Barber said.

Last year, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.15 during the Fourth of July week. This year, prices are higher, although they remain below the record levels seen in 2022, when the national average reached $4.80 per gallon on Independence Day.

Practical Tips for Traveling During the Fourth of July Weekend

Heavy highway traffic doesn’t mean you have to cancel your travel plans—it simply means taking extra precautions is more important than ever. Here are five practical tips to help reduce the risk of accidents and heat-related illnesses while traveling over the holiday weekend:

1. Leave early and avoid peak traffic hours – If possible, travel early in the morning or later in the evening to spend less time in traffic and reduce exposure to extreme heat.
2. Prepare your vehicle before you leave – Check your tire pressure, oil and coolant levels, brakes, and air conditioning. Bring plenty of drinking water, a phone charger, and a basic emergency kit.
3. Stay hydrated and avoid excessive heat – Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you need to stop outdoors, look for shade whenever possible and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Never leave children, older adults, or pets inside a vehicle, even for a few minutes.
4. Drive safely and avoid distractions – Obey speed limits, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid using your phone while driving. If you feel tired or drowsy, pull over in a safe location and take a break.
5. Monitor traffic and weather conditions before and during your trip – Check for road closures, crashes, or weather conditions that could affect your route. If you encounter heavy traffic, stay calm and avoid sudden lane changes or aggressive driving.

Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car

Following these simple precautions can help make your trip safer and more comfortable during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Happy Fourth of July!