Overview
- AAA is projecting a record 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles between June 27 and July 5, with about 61.4 million driving, roughly 5.85 million flying, and nearly 5 million using buses, trains or cruises.
- The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen about 18.7 million passengers between June 30 and July 6 and forecasted Thursday, July 2 as the single busiest day with more than 3 million screenings.
- Traffic analytics and rental companies predict the heaviest road congestion and rental pick-ups on Thursday, July 2 and through the holiday weekend, and officials are urging travelers to leave early or pick off-peak days to avoid long delays.
- Higher round-trip airfares near $800–$830 and elevated gas prices have not significantly reduced demand as major carriers add capacity for millions of extra seats this holiday week.
- Regional authorities warn of concentrated local impacts — for example the Port Authority expects about 5.5 million users July 2–6 and a FIFA World Cup match at MetLife Stadium will magnify Sunday congestion — and officials are emphasizing safety, heat precautions and extra roadside assistance.