MIAMI.- Floridians will travel in record numbers for the Independence Day holiday. AAA forecasts that more than 2.8 million Floridians will make at least one trip of 50 miles or more between Friday, June 30 and Tuesday, July 4.
According to AAA, The Auto Club Group, 87,000 more travelers are expected than the previous record, set last year.
Nationally, travel figures are also expected to set new records. Some 50.7 million Americans are forecast to travel over the holiday weekend. That’s almost 2.1 more than last year’s holiday and almost 1.8 million more than the previous high, set in 2019.
“Independence Day weekend looks to be the continuation of what has already been a very strong summer travel season,” said Debbie Haas, AAA Vice President of Travel.
“Although air and hotel fares 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.”
GASOLINE PRICES
Gasoline prices will remain lower than last year’s Florida vacation.
While it’s still too early to know exactly how much drivers will pay at gas stations this Diwali, it’s likely to be well below what drivers paid during the holiday period last year.
The Florida average was $4.54 per gallon on July 4, 2022. Gasoline prices have been somewhat erratic so far this summer, but the state average has remained below $3.47 per gallon, thanks to lower oil cost.
THE WORST DAYS TO TRAVEL
Friday, June 30, is expected to be the busiest day on the roads over the Independence Day holiday weekend, according to INRIX, a transportation data and information provider cited by AAA.
The worst travel times vary by day, but are generally in the afternoon and early evening.
Average travel times are estimated to be 30% longer than normal, particularly in major metropolitan areas, near beaches and attractions. To avoid the most congestion, INRIX recommends drivers leave in the morning or after 6:00 p.m.
AIR TICKETS RISE IN PRICE
According to AAA’s report, passengers are paying 40-50% more for flights compared to last year, but data shows that hasn’t been an impediment to buying tickets and bookings remain strong.
