Independence Day will be the second busiest since 2000 as travel volumes continue to trend upwards with no sign of slowing down according to AAA. They are projecting car travel will set a new record during the Independence Day holiday despite historically high gas prices. Over the five-day holiday period, 47.9 million people are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home. AAA says 42 million will take to the roads.
“The volume of travelers expected over Independence Day is a definite sign that summer travel is kicking into high gear,” says Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for the auto club group. “Earlier this year, we started seeing the demand for travel increase and it’s not tapering off. People are ready for a break and despite things costing more, they are finding ways to still take that much needed vacation.”
Pump prices are 64% more expensive than a year ago. As of Wednesday, the national average is $4.94. The Nebraska average is .20 cents less at $4.74. Although air travel is forecast to be near 1.5% stronger than last year, domestic traveler volumes are expected to remain well below pre-pandemic levels. Recent issues with air travel and ongoing concerns of cancellations and delays are likely the catalyst.