Best and worst times to drive for July Fourth
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This will be the busiest July 4 week for travel since at least 2019, AAA predicts.
Why it matters: The right departure time could save you hours stuck in traffic.
The big picture: The worst July 4 holiday traffic is expected to hit starting Thursday, according to INRIX, a transportation data firm that works with AAA to calculate travel times.
Yes, but: In certain metros — including Boston, Los Angeles and Philadelphia — peak congestion is expected earlier: Saturday, June 27.
State of play: To avoid the heaviest traffic, leave early in the day or consider driving on Monday or Tuesday, per INRIX.
By the numbers: AAA expects 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles for Independence Day between Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, July 5.
- That's up from 71.8 million travelers last year but a smaller jump than in recent years.
Zoom in: Most July 4 travelers — 85% — are forecasted to drive this year, despite high gas prices, according to AAA.
What we're watching: For those renting cars, AAA partner Hertz also expects Thursday to be the busiest pickup day.
- The top cities for advance bookings are Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles and New York City.
