Millions Travel for 4th of July Weekend

Desk Report

Millions of Americans are traveling across the country to celebrate the 4th of July holiday weekend. The American Automobile Association (AAA) has warned that traffic will be heavier than last year, urging travelers to leave early to avoid delays.

Between July 3 and July 7, more than 5.5 million passengers are expected to travel through Port Authority facilities, including major airports, bridges, and tunnels. Of these, nearly 2.2 million people will be flying through JFK, Newark, LaGuardia, and Stewart International airports.

AAA recommends hitting the road early in the morning and avoiding peak hours—especially between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Sunday is expected to be the most congested travel day of the weekend. For those flying, travelers are advised to arrive well ahead of their scheduled departure times to navigate long lines and heightened airport activity.

Despite the surge in travel, drivers have one reason to breathe easier: gas prices are slightly down compared to last year. The national average is $3.17 per gallon, with slight variations across states—$3.20 in New York, $3.15 in New Jersey, and $3.17 in Connecticut.

Travel officials continue to remind everyone to plan ahead, pack patience, and prioritize safety as the country celebrates its Independence Day.