WASHINGTON D.C. – American travelers are poised to set a new benchmark for Independence Day travel in 2025, according to a comprehensive forecast released by AAA. The organization projects a historic 72.2 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home during the upcoming holiday period, marking what is anticipated to be the busiest Fourth of July travel week on record.
This surge in travel activity is expected to unfold over the nine-day span from Saturday, June 28, through Sunday, July 6. The forecast represents a significant increase, with an estimated 1.7 million more travelers compared to the numbers recorded during the 2024 Independence Day week, underscoring a robust appetite for holiday getaways.
Road Travel Dominance
Consistent with historical trends, road trips are projected to remain the most popular and often the most cost-effective option for millions of Americans. AAA anticipates that an estimated 61.6 million people will choose to travel by automobile for the 2025 holiday. This figure alone represents a substantial increase of 1.3 million road travelers compared to the previous year, highlighting the enduring appeal of hitting the open road for Independence Day celebrations.
The widespread preference for driving suggests that highways across the nation will experience significant congestion, particularly in and around major metropolitan areas and popular vacation destinations as the holiday approaches.
Preparing for the Drive
Given the anticipated volume of vehicles on the road, AAA is advising drivers to take proactive steps to ensure their vehicles are in optimal condition before embarking on their journeys. Routine vehicle maintenance, such as checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and battery health, is paramount to minimizing the risk of breakdowns.
The call for preparation is rooted in recent history; during the 2024 Fourth of July week alone, AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide. Common issues requiring aid included frustrating but often preventable problems such as dead batteries, flat tires, running out of gas, and vehicle lockouts.
The cost of fuel remains a key consideration for road travelers. Currently, the national average for gasoline prices is approximately 40 cents lower per gallon than it was at the same time last year. This brings prices to their lowest point since 2021, offering some financial relief to drivers. However, AAA cautions that potential activity during the Atlantic hurricane season could introduce volatility and cause temporary price increases at the pump in certain regions.
Air Travel Reaches New Heights
While road travel dominates, air travel is also expected to reach unprecedented levels for the holiday. AAA forecasts that 5.84 million people will fly to their destinations during the 2025 Fourth of July travel period. This represents a 1.4% increase compared to 2024 and accounts for approximately 8% of all anticipated holiday travelers.
The rise in air passenger volume indicates that airports will be exceptionally busy, with potential for delays and increased wait times. The average roundtrip domestic flight for the holiday is currently reported to cost around $810, reflecting the significant demand for air transport during this peak travel week.
Rental Car Demand Surges
The surge in both road and air travel naturally translates into heightened demand for rental vehicles. According to projections from Hertz, one of the nation’s leading rental car providers, demand is expected to surge significantly throughout the holiday week. Wednesday, July 3, is specifically anticipated to be the single busiest day for rental car pick-ups, as travelers finalize their ground transportation plans ahead of the holiday.
Travelers planning to rent vehicles are advised to book well in advance to secure their preferred vehicle type and potentially avoid higher last-minute prices.
Expert Commentary
Offering perspective on the forecast, Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, highlighted the strong enthusiasm observed across different travel segments. “We are seeing robust demand for travel this Independence Day week, encompassing both the traditional great American road trip and increased interest in air travel,” Barber stated.
Her comments underscore the broad-based nature of the anticipated travel boom, reflecting a nationwide desire to connect with family and friends or explore new destinations during the extended holiday period.
In conclusion, the AAA forecast paints a clear picture of a bustling Independence Day week in 2025. With record numbers projected to travel by both car and plane, travelers should prepare for crowded highways, busy airports, and strong demand for services, ensuring their plans are made well in advance to navigate the busiest holiday travel period on record.
