As the Independence Day holiday approaches, AAA Hawaiʻi is anticipating a record-breaking 11 million travelers from across the Pacific Region to hit the skies and roads.
The travel forecast, covering the period from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6, indicates a sharp uptick in both air and road travel, with popular destinations including Orlando, Seattle, New York, and several international cities like Rome, Paris, and London.
This surge in travel marks a 2.3% increase from 2024 and a significant 9.1% rise compared to 2019, further solidifying the Independence Day period as one of the busiest travel times of the year.
With the holiday falling on a Friday this year, many travelers are extending the celebration into long weekends or even full weeks of vacation.
Air travel is expected to soar to new heights, with AAA’s forecast estimating that 5.84 million individuals will travel by air during the Independence Day holiday.
This projection represents an all-time high for the holiday, with air travel accounting for 8% of the total number of holiday travelers, increasing by 1.4% from last year’s record numbers.
The top domestic air travel destinations are Orlando, Seattle, New York, and Anchorage, Alaska.
On the international front, cities such as Vancouver, Rome, Paris, London, and Barcelona are proving to be favored among travelers seeking new adventures and getaways.
In addition to rising air travel, road trips are also expected to play a significant role in this year’s holiday travel trends.
AAA Hawaiʻi emphasizes the importance of vehicle safety, urging travelers to conduct vehicle checks prior to their journeys.
Last year, nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls were made during the holiday week, with common issues including flat tires, dead batteries, and empty gas tanks.
To avoid such roadside mishaps, AAA Hawaiʻi stresses the necessity of inspecting vehicles and packing emergency kits ahead of time.
Road trips have become a popular choice for families and friends across the Pacific Region, with many travelers driving within California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and Hawaiʻi.
Gas prices in Hawaiʻi remain stable compared to last year, currently hovering 20 to 30 cents lower and marking the lowest rates during this holiday since 2021.
While crude oil prices are stable, potential global tensions could influence price fluctuations.
Travelers are encouraged to fill up early and monitor fuel costs throughout their journeys.
Gas prices have remained stable compared to last year, a welcome relief for many road trippers.
For individuals renting vehicles, July 3 is projected to be the busiest day, with SUVs and midsize sedans being in high demand.
Key rental destinations are Orlando, Denver, Boston, Oʻahu, and Seattle, all of which are experiencing a surge in demand.
Moreover, travel by alternative transportation methods, including cruises, trains, and buses, is expected to experience growth in 2025.
Approximately 4.78 million people are anticipated to opt for these travel methods, reflecting a 7.4% increase over last year.
This resurgence in non-air travel is largely attributed to the booming Alaska cruise season, which is currently ongoing.
For those seeking scenic and leisurely travel experiences, trains and buses provide an attractive alternative.
As travelers prepare for their journeys, increased crowds at airports are expected, with TSA screening anticipated to be busier than usual.
To minimize wait times, travelers should plan to arrive at the airport early and consider utilizing TSA PreCheck if available.
International travelers can also expect heightened demand at major European airports, particularly in Rome, Paris, and London.
With bookings surging in these popular destinations, travelers from the Pacific Region should be prepared for busy terminals.
As travelers head to crowded hotspots such as Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Seattle, it’s essential to anticipate a higher volume of tourists.
Popular attractions, beaches, and national parks, especially in cities like New York and Anchorage, are likely to experience heavy foot traffic.
For those seeking a quieter experience, AAA recommends exploring lesser-known attractions or planning visits during off-peak hours.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday journey, AAA Hawaiʻi offers several key travel tips.
Conduct a complete vehicle inspection before embarking on long drives, checking tire pressure, oil levels, and battery status.
Pack an emergency kit with essentials, including water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Stay informed about travel plans by signing up for flight alerts to monitor any changes.
Thoroughly research your destination for optimal times to visit popular attractions and consider making reservations whenever possible.
Lastly, consider purchasing travel insurance to safeguard against unexpected cancellations or delays.
In conclusion, the July 4th holiday period is poised to become one of the busiest travel times on record.
With millions of people taking to the roads and skies, careful planning and preparation will be crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Travelers are always encouraged to remain informed and flexible to navigate this bustling travel period.
image source from：travelandtourworld
