Americans are expected to set a new travel record this year while celebrating the nation’s 249th birthday, according to the latest forecast by the American Automobile Association (AAA). The report, released by the organization, predicts that 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from their homes on July 4th, marking a significant increase in travel activity compared to previous years.
The forecast indicates that the holiday period, which begins on June 28 and ends on July 6, will see a surge in travel demand, with over 60 million Americans planning to drive to their destinations. This represents a 2.2% increase from the 2024 numbers. In addition, 5.84 million travelers are expected to fly and 4.78 million will use alternative transportation methods such as cruises or trains.
Stacey Barber, AAA Travel’s vice president, commented on the rising trend in travel as the summer season approaches, noting that ‘Summertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.’ She also highlighted the flexibility the 2025 Independence Day holiday provides, as it falls on a Friday, allowing travelers to extend their trips or take the entire week off. This long weekend option is expected to contribute to the increased travel numbers.
The report further notes that the 2025 travel forecast shows a substantial increase compared to 2024, with 1.7 million more travelers expected, and an even greater increase of 7 million compared to 2019 levels. This data suggests that Americans are increasingly prioritizing travel and leisure activities during the summer months, with a particular emphasis on family and friends gatherings, as highlighted by Barber.
As the travel season approaches, the AAA report serves as a reminder of the significant impact that major holidays can have on travel patterns and the economy. With such a large number of people expected to travel, there may be increased demand for accommodations, transportation services, and related industries, potentially boosting the hospitality and travel sectors in the coming months.