A record-breaking 46.9 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more for the Fourth of July this year, according to AAA.
That’s 2.4 million more travelers than last year and the highest number since AAA started tracking 18 years ago.
With Independence Day landing on a Wednesday this year, AAA expects the worst congestion on what they’re calling "Terrible Tuesday."
Travel times are expected to double in major metro areas on July 3, with the worst traffic in the afternoon.
When it comes to gas, prices are only expected to go up a few cents and are expected to be lower than they were over Memorial Day weekend.
Hotels and car rental prices are slightly higher than this time last year, but airfares are the lowest they’ve been in five years, leading a record number of travelers to hit the skies.
The most popular destinations over the Independence Day holiday are Orlando, Florida and Anaheim, California, where major theme parks are a big draw for tourists.
AAA says the other popular travel destinations will be Seattle, Washington, Anchorage, Alaska and Honolulu, Hawaii.
AAA also predicts more than 350,000 drivers will need roadside assistance around the Independence Day holiday.
"Make sure your car is road trip ready, so check your batteries, check for engine leaks and check your tires," said AAA spokesman Jeanette Casselano.
It’s also a good idea to pack an emergency kit with tools, snacks, water and supplies in case anything does go wrong.
