More Americans are expected to travel during the Independence Day holiday than ever before, according to a new forecast from AAA.
The organization projects that 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home during the extended July Fourth travel period, which runs from June 27 through July 5. That would surpass last year’s record of 71.8 million travelers.
Driving remains the most popular way to travel. AAA estimates that 61.4 million Americans—about 85% of all holiday travelers—will take road trips, a slight increase from last year.
Air travel is also expected to remain strong, with approximately 5.85 million passengers flying domestically during the holiday period. That represents a modest increase over 2025. According to AAA booking data, average round-trip domestic airfare is about $830, roughly 5% higher than last year for many popular destinations.
Travel by bus, train, and cruise ship is projected to experience the largest percentage increase. Nearly 4.9 million people are expected to use those transportation options, driven in part by continued demand for cruise vacations.
In Florida, AAA estimates that more than 4.6 million residents will travel during the holiday period, with over 4 million expected to drive. The statewide forecast also sets a new Independence Day travel record.
Transportation analysts expect highways to be busiest during peak daytime travel hours throughout the holiday week. Travelers are encouraged to allow extra time, monitor traffic conditions, and prepare for heavier-than-normal congestion on major roadways and at airports.
AAA says the extended nine-day travel period includes both vacationers taking weeklong trips and those traveling only for the long holiday weekend, contributing to the record-breaking forecast.
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