According to AAA estimates, a record-breaking number of people are expected to travel during the week surrounding Independence Day this year. With the flexibility of remote work and summer vacations in full swing, an additional 5.7 million people are predicted to travel compared to 2019.

Between June 29 and July 7, nearly 71 million individuals are expected to embark on their journeys, marking a 5% increase from last year and an 8% surge from 2019. Of these travelers, approximately 60.6 million are anticipated to hit the roads, indicating a rise of 2.8 million road trips compared to the same period in 2023.

However, travelers should be prepared for heavy traffic and potential delays. INRIX, a transportation data analyst, advises that the worst times to hit the road would be between 2 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Sunday. To avoid congestion, those traveling by car on July 3 and July 4 are recommended to leave home before noon, while road-trippers on July 6 and July 7 should aim to depart before 10 a.m.

Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX, cautions that car trips during busy holiday weekends can take up to 67% longer than usual travel times. Therefore, starting drives in the morning, if possible, is advisable. Alternatively, experts suggest waiting until after the evening rush to commence the journey.

It is vital for travelers to exercise caution during this period as Independence Day ranks among the most dangerous holidays for driving in the United States, according to information from Omega Law. The firm highlights that breaks from school or work often lead to a higher number of teenage or inexperienced drivers on the roads, contributing to risky driving behaviors and accidents. Their analysis found South Dakota to be the most dangerous state for driving during the July 4 holiday, with a significant increase of 244% in fatal crashes compared to any other day. Washington, D.C. also experienced a rise of 182% in fatal crashes during this time.

Additionally, Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are the cities with the highest demand for rental cars during this year's holiday week. Last Friday, Saturday, and Wednesday, July 3, witnessed the busiest pickup days for rental cars.

Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates that more than 32 million people will pass through U.S. airports between June 29 and July 8. This showcases a notable increase of 5.4 million individuals from last year. The peak travel day is expected to be July 7, with approximately 3 million people streaming through the country's 434 airports.

To accommodate the surge in travelers, TSA officials across the nation have been planning security operations. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours early, even for domestic trips. AAA also recommends reserving parking in advance and opting for carry-on luggage to save time and money.

The allure of lower-than-average prices for domestic airfare has contributed to the surge in flyers. AAA estimates that domestic airfare will be 2% cheaper than last year, with the average price for a domestic round-trip ticket averaging $800.

Aside from road trips and air travel, over 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, such as buses, cruises, and trains, during the July Fourth holiday period. This marks a significant 9% increase from 2019, according to AAA.

As the holiday approaches, it is crucial for travelers to plan ahead, prioritize safety, and allow extra time for their journeys.