AAA Hoosier Motor Club projects travel for Fourth of July week
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — AAA Hoosier Motor Club released its anticipated travel projections for the Independence Day holiday period, which spans from Monday to Saturday.
According to AAA and S&P Global Market Intelligence, a record-breaking 70.9 million people are expected to travel during this time, a 5.2% increase from last year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels, AAA Hoosier Motor Club said in a release.
“With a record-breaking number of travelers this holiday season, we are thrilled to provide valuable tips to ensure the smoothest travel experience possible,” said Matt Goins, president & CEO of AAA Hoosier Motor Club. “We understand how stressful traveling can be, and AAA Hoosier Motor Club is committed to making our members’ journeys as seamless as possible.”
The travel forecast highlights significant increases across various modes of transportation:
- Driving: A record 60.6 million travelers will hit the road, up 2.8 million from last year and exceeding the 2019 figure of 55.3 million.
- Flying: Approximately 5.74 million individuals will take to the skies, marking a nearly 7% increase from last year and a 12% rise compared to 2019.
- Other modes: 4.62 million travelers are expected to use buses, trains, or cruise ships, reflecting a 9% increase from last year.
AAA’s data also provides insights into travel logistics and costs:
- Gas Prices: Expected to be lower than last year’s national average of $3.53, with potential fluctuations due to hurricane season impacts on the Gulf Coast.
- Flight Costs: Domestic airfare is 2% cheaper this year, averaging $800 for a roundtrip ticket, while international flights have seen a 7% increase, averaging $1,440.
- Accommodations: Domestic and international hotel bookings are up 17% and 14% in cost respectively, with average stays costing approximately $660 and $725.
- Car Rentals: Domestic rentals have decreased by 16%, averaging $670, while international rentals are down 6%, averaging $940.
- Cruises: Departures from domestic cities are 24% cheaper, averaging $1,420, and international departures are 6% cheaper, averaging $2,430.
Travelers are advised to plan ahead, particularly avoiding peak driving times between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and to expect heightened traffic on the Wednesday before July 4, as well as the Sunday and Monday after.