AAA: 47 MILLION AMERICANS TO TRAVEL FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY

Travel continues to rebound after a year-long pandemic. AAA forecasts travel volumes for Independence Day will be the second-highest on record; nearing the highs set in 2019.

More than 47.7 million Americans will take at least one domestic trip this Independence Day (July 1–5). This represents an increase of nearly 40% from last year, yet just 2.5% fewer than the 2019 holiday weekend.

Travel figures in the Carolinas are also rebounding from last year. Nearly 1.4 million North Carolinians and 688,500 South Carolinians are forecast to take a trip during the holiday weekend. That’s the second-most on record, and 35% more than the 2020 holiday period.

North Carolina’s current gas price average sits at $2.88, seeing a 1-cent increase on the week. This is 4 cents cheaper than a month ago but 90 cents more expensive than last year. South Carolina’s current gas price average sits at $2.76, seeing a 3-cent decrease on the week. This is 10 cents cheaper than a month ago but $1.00 more expensive than last year. South Carolina is also a part of the nation’s top 10 biggest weekly changes.

Today’s national gas price average decreased by a penny since last Monday, down to $3.07 today. This is more expensive on the month (+3 cents) and the year (+95 cents).

AAA urges air travelers to be patient and prepared as millions of Americans return to the airport for summer trips. Demand has steadily climbed in recent months, as the world reopens to travelers. However, the increased demand, weather issues, and staff shortages have resulted in longer security lines and in some cases, altered itineraries and cancelled flights.

Sunday, the TSA reportedly screened more than 2.1 million air travelers – the most since the pandemic was declared in March 2020. So far this month, air passenger counts averaged nearly 1.9 million passengers per day. While that average is 32% lower than June 2019 (2,566,092), it’s on pace for a 145% increase from January 2021.

AAA offers the following tips for passengers:

• Book early for more options (seat and flight inventory).

• Enroll in TSA PreCheck to get the most convenient experience with the least amount of physical contact in screening. There’s no need for screening bins, shoes/belts stay on, and laptops/liquids/food remain in the carry-on. In March 2021, 98% of TSA PreCheck passengers waited less than 5 minutes.

• Consider flight travel insurance, but read the fine print to understand what it covers.
• Know your rights as an air passenger and review your airline’s contract of carriage for information on their policies for flight delays, cancellations and rebooking. If the airlines change the flight, you may be entitled to a full refund.
• Book your trip with a knowledgeable travel agent. They’ll serve as your advocate in case your flight is delayed or canceled, and can help with any last-minute travel plans.
• Check your airline’s website or download their app to keep up-to-date on your flight status, including one last time right before you leave for the airport. Check these options before calling their customer service number, which may result in a long wait time.

AAA reminds travelers that countries in Europe and around the world each have their own COVID-19-related protocols for incoming travelers. That’s why AAA urges travelers to seek the advice of a travel advisor who can help you navigate the evolving requirements as you plan and prepare to travel.