AAA: Fewer Americans traveling for Fourth of July holiday
BELLEVUE –40.8 million Americans are expected to travel this Fourth of July holiday, down from last year. The expected drop in numbers is because of a shorter holiday period. Last year, the holiday landed on a Wednesday, giving people a longer holiday. This year, it falls on a Thursday, giving people a shorter holiday.AAA defines the travel period as Wednesday, July 3 to Sunday, July 7. Those are the days the biggest number of people are expected to travel. 84% of travelers will drive to their destination. 3 million people, or eight percent, will fly to their destination. The remaining eight percent will take other modes of transportation, including rail, bus and watercraft. The distance traveled is also shortened. This year, people are expected to travel 613 miles, less than last year’s 110 miles. They are also expected to spend just $2 less from last year.