As if airports weren't busy enough, Hawaii has broken its all-time record for visitors from the Pacific Islands and is poised to become a top destination for American travelers over the Independence Day long holiday.
More than 10.8 million residents of Hawaii, Alaska, California, Oregon and Washington plan to take vacation over the Fourth of July holiday, up 5.2% from last year and 7.5% from pre-pandemic 2019, according to AAA booking data.
About 71 million people are expected to travel nationwide, also a new record for the holiday.
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The Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as a nine-day period starting Saturday, June 29 through Sunday, July 7, and has been extended by AAA to account for people taking long summer vacations during the holiday.
“This year's Fourth of July continues a trend that began on Memorial Day and is breaking travel records,” said Jenna Miller, vice president of travel products and services for AAA Hawaii. “For Pacific Islanders, air travel is expected to see the biggest increase over the holiday, which is expected to be about 16 percent higher than last year, due in part to slightly lower domestic airfares.”
Honolulu will likely be one of the top five domestic destinations for American travelers this holiday season. Other popular destinations include Seattle, Washington; Orlando, Florida; Anchorage, Alaska; and Miami, Florida.
Gas prices, vacation costs, travel trends and tips
Gas prices are about the same as they were in Hawaii at this time last year. The national average gas price is about 10 cents less per gallon than a year ago. Road trip travelers can use the free AAA mobile app to find the cheapest gas prices along their route. Rental cars, domestic airfares, and domestic and international tours and cruises are cheaper than this time last year, but international airfares are up 7% compared to this time last year, domestic hotel rates are up 17%, and international hotel rates are up 14%. For most travelers who drive to their destinations, AAA strongly encourages a pre-departure vehicle inspection by a trusted mechanic. AAA will provide relief to approximately 800,000 drivers nationwide and more than 900 drivers in Hawaii during the Independence Day travel period. To find a trusted local AAA-certified auto repair facility, visit AAA.com/AAR. Article continues below advertisement
AAA Hawaii recommends that air travelers:
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours before departure for international flights Book airport parking in advance Check in online from home to avoid long lines at the terminal Download airline apps to receive immediate notifications if there are any changes to your flight If you travel frequently, consider applying for TSA PreCheck.
AAA Hawaii encourages drivers to take road trips to the following locations:
Get at least seven hours of sleep before driving to avoid feeling drowsy while driving. Make sure everyone is wearing their seat belt while driving. Don't drink and drive. Don't drive while distracted – driving while distracted is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. Pack snacks, bottled water, a phone charger, and an emergency roadside kit.
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