As Independence Day nears, Americans all over the country are ready to pack their bags and hit the road, air or water for their Fourth of July celebrations.

“Actually, we’ve seen over the last couple of years an increased interest to travel around the holidays. You know, more people saying they want to get out, go see family and friends,” AAA spokesperson Jim Garrity said.

According to AAA’s Fourth of July travel report, 72.2 million Americans will travel a minimum of 50 miles from home for Independence Day this year. While the year-to-year increase is reportedly smaller than recent years, the forecast still passes last year’s record of 78.1 million travelers.

“This year there’s the added component of it being such a historical Fourth of July that some folks are doing some of the historic locations,” Garrity said.

With 61.4 million people expected to utilize cars for their holiday week travels, they make up about 85% of Americans traveling for the Fourth of July. This number has stayed close to last year’s 61.3 million.

“It’s a very road trip heavy holiday,” said Garrity.

This rate comes as gas prices reach a national average of $3.84 per gallon of regular gasoline according to AAA. While higher than 2025’s average, rates remain lower than 2022’s Independence Day rate of $4.80. Butler county’s average as of July 2 is $4.35 per gallon.

Some choose to spend their gas money and mileage on a rental. Domestic car rentals are reportedly 10% more expensive compared to last year’s holiday weekend, according to Hertz, a rental car company partnered with AAA.

“If you’re thinking about purchasing a car, it’s an interesting way to kind of try it out before you make the transaction,” Garrity said.

Hertz predicts July 2 to be their busiest pickup day for those traveling via rental car. Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles and New York City are the cities with the most demand. Garrity said those renting a car are advised to make their reservations early to get a good price and availability.

Domestic flights are expected to see 5.85 million travelers over the week of July 4. Making up 8% of holiday travelers, this is a 0.2% increase from last year, according to AAA. Tickets are reportedly averaging $830 for domestic, round-trip flights.

Arriving to the airport two or three hours prior to flights gives fliers adequate flexibility to get to their boarding gates.

“There’s the added benefit now that we have this new, beautiful airport to travel through. So, you know, if you get there and you get through the TSA checkpoint in good time, well, then you have more time to explore the new airport,” Garrity said.

Increases this year are primarily in travel by train, bus or cruise. A projected 4.93 million Americans will utilize one of the three modes of travel this year, an increase of 5.3% from last year.

This year will also surpass 2019’s number of 4.79 million travelers. Garrity said cruises were projected to be on an uptick all year round. AAA attributed the increase to post-pandemic interest, as well as the price inclusivity and versatility of the vacation.

“A cruise is a great way to go on a trip, you unpack once, you travel aboard what’s essentially a floating city that has amenities, attractions, food, things to do no matter what age you are,” Garrity said.

Heat warnings continue to come in for the holiday week. According to the National Weather Service, high heat and humidity will blanket the U.S. for the Independence Day week.

With temperatures projected into the upper 90s and scattered chances of thunderstorms, drivers are advised to keep up with car maintenance.

AAA recommends vehicle owners stay up-to-date on their oil changes, cooling systems and car batteries. Garrity said the sun breaks down car batteries over time, so drivers should get theirs tested before a long trip.

“Checking under the hood before your trip is going to go a long way,” Garrity said.

Staying safe is always the most important part of traveling. AAA is partnering with Mothers Against Drunk Driving to remind everyone to prevent driving under the influence this holiday.

“Since the early 80s, impaired driving crashes were declining; but right around 2020, they started going up again,” Garrity said.

The best way to prevent impaired driving is to stick to plan and have a designated driver. Even if it feels uncomfortable, speaking up can get everyone home safe this Fourth of July.

“If you see someone getting behind the wheel, it takes courage, but step up and say no, take the keys away, because you could, potentially, whether you know it or not, be saving someone’s life,” Garrity said.