Record-Breaking Travel Expected for July 4 Holiday

01 July 2024 10:13pm

However, the anticipated milestone was not reached, with the final count at 2.93 million passengers for that day. As the long holiday weekend approaches, both the TSA and AAA are predicting an unprecedented level of travel activity.

The TSA anticipates that more than 32 million travelers will pass through US airports from June 27 to July 8, representing a 5.4% increase over last year’s Independence Day holiday. TSA Administrator David Pekoske stated that summer travel peaks during this period and assured that the agency is fully prepared for the surge in travelers. Meanwhile, AAA forecasts that approximately 70.9 million Americans will venture at least 50 miles from home, with over 85% of these travelers expected to take road trips. This surge is predicted to be the highest since 2019, reflecting a 5.7 million increase from pre-pandemic levels.

For those seeking to avoid the holiday crowds, CNN Travel has compiled a list of 10 fantastic US cities that are not yet overrun by tourists. This selection offers alternatives to the more crowded and expensive destinations and highlights places with unique charm and affordable experiences. If you prefer quieter getaways, the list also points to some of the least-visited national parks in the US for a serene escape from the bustling holiday scene.

In a notable development in theme parks, Disney has replaced its Genie+ ride reservation system with a new service called Lightning Lanes at Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida. This change allows visitors staying at a park hotel to book up to three attractions seven days in advance, while those staying off-site can book three days in advance. This shift aims to streamline the reservation process and enhance the visitor experience during the peak summer season.

As travelers prepare for the holiday rush, there have been several recent transportation-related challenges. A power outage caused delays at one of the UK’s busiest airports, while in Naples, Florida, a former customs official was found guilty of stealing cash from arriving passengers. In South Korea, flights at Incheon International Airport were disrupted by balloons filled with trash launched by North Korea, causing additional travel inconveniences.

In a more dramatic incident, the world’s largest cruise ship caught fire while docked in Mexico, though the situation was swiftly contained. Additionally, a classic roller coaster ride in California experienced a mid-ride emergency, forcing passengers to climb off the ride. These events underscore the unpredictability of travel and the need for preparedness during busy holiday periods.

Amid these developments, CNN Underscored, a product reviews and recommendations guide, offers tips for the best beach bags and totes for those planning to enjoy the seaside during the summer heat. Whether you’re traveling far or staying local, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the extended July 4 holiday.

Travelers at Los Angeles International Airport on June 25, 2024, navigated the bustling terminals ahead of the July 4 holiday period. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported screening a record-setting 2.99 million passengers on June 23, with high hopes of surpassing the 3 million mark by June 28. However, the anticipated milestone was not reached, with the final count at 2.93 million passengers for that day. As the long holiday weekend approaches, both the TSA and AAA are predicting an unprecedented level of travel activity.

Source: CNN