JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A record number of Americans are expected to hit the road or take to the skies this Independence Day holiday, according to AAA.
The auto and travel organization projects 72.2 million people will travel during the 4th of July holiday period — up slightly from 71.8 million last year. AAA noted the overall increase is smaller compared to gains seen in previous years.
Despite gas prices reaching four-year highs, 85% of Americans traveling for Independence Day are expected to drive. AAA projects about 61.4 million people will travel by car this year, compared to 61.3 million last year.
AAA has identified the best and worst times to be on the road over the next three days:
Friday, July 3
- Worst: 12–7 p.m.
- Best: Before 11 a.m.
Saturday, July 4
- Worst: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Best: After 3 p.m.
Sunday, July 5
- Worst: 12–6 p.m.
- Best: Before 11 a.m.
For some travelers, the choice to drive comes down to convenience and cost. Abby Howard and Abi Scroggins, traveling from Auburn, Alabama, to Northeast Florida, said driving simply made more sense for their trip.
“Cheaper,” Scroggins said, “A little bit easier, too. Just like logistically, we can bring more stuff.”
The milestone nature of this year’s holiday is also a contributing factor — 2026 marks the nation’s 250th anniversary.
AAA says nearly 6 million people will fly domestically during the 4th of July travel week.
At Jacksonville International Airport on Friday morning, travelers were already in a festive mood — decked out in red, white and blue ahead of the holiday.
For Army veteran Jason Kirk, the trip carries special meaning. He is heading home to Chicago to celebrate with family.
“250 is quite a milestone for our country,” Kirk said. “I’m a veteran [and] served in the military for 26 years, so it really means a lot to join with family and mark this milestone for our country.”