The upcoming Independence Day holiday is expected to see record-breaking travel numbers, with nearly 71 million people estimated to travel between June 29 and July 7, marking a 5% increase from last year and an 8% increase from 2019. The majority of travelers, about 60.6 million, are expected to travel by car, leading to heavy traffic and delays. The worst times to hit the road are predicted to be between 2 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Sunday. Travelers are advised to leave before noon on July 3 and 4, and before 10 a.m. on July 6 and 7 to avoid traffic congestion. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen more than 28 million people nationally during this period, representing a 5% increase over last year. Additionally, the average price for domestic flights is estimated to be $800 roundtrip, with travelers heading to various destinations for a variety of reasons. The increase in travel is attributed to summer vacations, remote work flexibility, and a desire for extended trips around Independence Day. The surge in travel is not limited to road trips, as air travel is also expected to reach record levels. The Transportation Security Administration anticipates screening more than 32 million passengers between June 27 and July 8, with July historically experiencing the most delays due to extreme weather. Summer thunderstorms, including lightning that can halt airport operations, are cited as a significant factor contributing to delays during this period. Overall, the Fourth of July holiday is expected to mark the peak for summer travel, with both road and air travel reaching record levels. The surge in travel is attributed to a combination of factors, including pent-up demand following coronavirus shutdowns, increased flexibility in remote work, and a desire for extended vacations around the holiday. As a result, travelers are advised to plan ahead, leave early to avoid traffic, and be prepared for potential delays, especially for those traveling by car or flying during the holiday period.
