According to AAA, 70.9 million people will travel more than 50 miles from home over the Independence Day holiday.
That’s an increase of roughly 5% from 2023, but according to travel app Hopper, Americans will spend 40% more on airfare this holiday season.
Either way, AAA expects more Americans to use airports this year compared to last, and recommends arriving at the airport two hours early.
“The airport will be busy throughout the week. AAA encourages customers to arrive two hours early, reserve parking in advance and travel with carry-on luggage instead of checked bags to save time and money,” media relations manager Aida Diaz said in a press release.
The travel agency also recommended that the driver leave in the morning.
“Drivers in major metropolitan areas can expect the most congestion when departing on Wednesday, July 3, and returning on Sunday, July 7,” INRIX transportation analyst Bob Pichoux said in a press release. “Drives over the long weekend could take up to 67 percent longer than usual. Travelers should check 511 services, local news stations and traffic apps for the latest road conditions.”
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Crystal Gibson, who is in Delray Beach for a vacation and an extended week, said she is originally from Knoxville and came to town because it’s a family tradition to own a timeshare in the area and she loves the beach.
“It was very busy,” Gibson said of the beach, “… I’m glad the beach is being kept clean. The beach is being kept safe and that’s important to us.”
Tammy Billups, who was also at the beach, said she was visiting from Richmond, Va. The beach was crowded, but she said that wasn’t a problem.
“The Fourth of July is always a big deal in Delray,” Billups said, “and I like people. But if you don’t like people, that might be a problem. But it’s all good.”