AAA predicts that over 1.6 million Georgians will travel at least 50 miles between June 30 and July 4, beating 2022's record high for Independence Day travel in the state by 68,000.
The agency said in a press release it projects Georgia will see 1.4 million people travel in an automobile, 124,463 will in a plane and 72,142 will travel via alternative modes of transportation.
Nationally, the agency believes 50.7 million people will travel for the holiday, which is nearly 2.1 million more than last year. AAA projects 43.2 million people will travel in an automobile, 4.2 million will travel via airplane, and 3.4 million will travel via alternative modes of transportation.
“Independence Day weekend appears to be the continuation of what has already been a very strong summer travel season,” Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said. “Although airfares and hotel rates are more expensive than last year, Americans are still eager to travel. So, expect to see congested roads, busy hotels, and long lines at airports and attractions.”
Traveling via automobile appears to be the preferred mode of transportation this year, with 85% of travelers taking a road trip. AAA noted it’s unknown what motorists will be paying at the pump on Independence Day, it’s highly likely that it will be below last year’s holiday. In July of 2022, the Georgia average was $4.31 per gallon on July 4th. The state average this summer has remained below $3.39.
During the Independence Day weekend, average travel times are estimated to be 30% longer. June 30 is predicted to be the busiest travel day on the roads, with the worst time frame to travel via car from 10 a.m.-- 5 p.m. The best times to travel on June 30 will be before 10:00 a.m. and after 6 p.m. On July 1, the agency said the worst times to travel will be 1 p.m. and the optimal time to travel will be before noon. Traffic for July 2 and July 3 is predicted to be fairly light, but traffic is predicted to be congested again from 12-3 p.m. on July 4th. The ideal travel time for Independence Day will be before 11 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Roadways are expected to be the most crowded from 3-6 p.m. on July 5th with the ideal travel window being before 2 p.m.
Air travel is seeing the biggest spike in demand despite higher ticket prices. Passengers are paying 40% - 50% more for flights compared to last year, yet AAA data shows bookings remain strong.
Over 400,000 more Americans will board a flight compared to years past. This 4th of July holiday travel period is expected to surpass the previous July 4th weekend air travel record of 3.91 million travelers.
AAA said other modes of transportation are also seeing an increase in demand. AAA expects 3.36 million people will travel by bus, cruise, or train over the long weekend, an increase of 24% over last year. However, the agency does not expect this year's travelers will surpass the 2019 levels.
