AAA expects a record number of travelers from Nebraska, Iowa, and neighboring states to hit the road for the Independence Day holiday. More than 5.1 million people from the West North Central Region are projected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the holiday period, which runs from June 27 through July 5.
AAA says more than 4.3 million of those travelers will drive to their destinations. Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA says holiday travel remains a priority for many. “For many families, traveling for Independence Day isn’t just a trip, it’s a tradition,” Haas says. “Vacations are one category where consumers are still willing to spend, even if that means cutting back on something else.”
AAA says the regional travel forecast is a record for the Fourth of July holiday, despite higher travel costs. Many travelers are adjusting by taking shorter trips, staying closer to home, and looking for ways to reduce expenses.
Nationally, AAA projects more than 61 million Americans will travel by car during the holiday week. Gas prices have eased somewhat compared to last month, with Nebraska averaging $3.66 a gallon and Iowa averaging $3.53 as of June 22.
Air travel remains strong, with nearly 5.8 million Americans expected to fly, while cruises, trains, and buses are seeing the fastest growth. AAA says nearly 5 million travelers will use those transportation options, fueled largely by continued demand for cruise vacations.
AAA is also reminding motorists to make safety a priority. According to the organization, nearly one in three summertime traffic deaths involves an impaired driver. Drivers planning to celebrate are encouraged to arrange a sober ride before heading out.
With heavy traffic expected, especially beginning July 2, AAA advises travelers to leave early, avoid peak travel times when possible, and make sure their vehicles are road-trip ready before departing.