June 27, 2016—AAA announced Monday that it has projected nearly 43 million Americans will travel during this year’s Fourth of July weekend, representing the highest travel volume on record and half a million more travelers than last year.
“Independence Day is always the most-traveled holiday of the summer, but this year it will be bigger than ever, primarily because of low gas prices,” said Joseph J. Richardson Jr., president and CEO of AAA - The Auto Club Group. “Airports will be just as crowded as the roads, because low fuel prices are making it more affordable to fly. If fundamentals remain the same, this could be a record-breaking year for summertime travel.”
More than 36 million travelers will be driving this weekend, representing 84 percent of the holiday travelers. Travelers will also see the lowest gas prices since 2005.
"The average motorist has saved about $100 on gasoline so far this year compared to the first six months of 2015," AAA spokesperson Gail Weinholzer said. "These low gas prices, combined with rising wages, are helping boost disposable income, making travel more affordable. Gas prices for the rest of the year are forecast to remain lower than last year, unless oil prices take an unexpected upward turn."
AAA said it expects to aid more than 370,000 motorists this weekend who will require roadside assistance. Primary reasons will be dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires.
AAA is also recommending motorist have their vehicles inspected at a service shop to ensure their vehicles are ready for holiday travel.