It looks like 2025 will be a record-setting year for Floridians traveling for the Independence Day holiday according to top forecasters.

AAA – The Auto Club Group, projects travelers will set new records both nationwide and in Florida this Fourth of July. According to AAA, more than 72.2 million people around the country are expected to travel 50-plus miles away from home (up 2.4% from last year), with nearly 4.6 million being Floridians (up 3% from last year).

According to officials to better reflect holiday travel trends, AAA’s forecast now accounts for two weekends, capturing extended trips and varied departure schedules.

“Independence Day is one of the most popular times for travel, with Americans eager to take advantage of summer vacation opportunities,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of AAA Travel, in a release. “This year, we’re seeing strong demand for road trips, flights, and cruises, especially with the holiday falling on a Friday. This is allowing travelers to extend their getaways and make lasting memories with loved ones.”

AAA estimates 61.6 million Americans will drive — a 2.2% increase from last year and the highest number ever recorded. An estimated 1.3 million more road travelers are expected compared to 2024. 

As for how Floridians will travel, AAA predicts 4 million to travel via car, 329,762 by air, and 203,629 via other means, such as bus, train, or cruise. 

AAA officials state that gas prices are likely to fluctuate before Independence Day. 

“Last week, oil prices surged in response to Israel’s strikes on Iran, increasing gasoline production costs,” officials stated in a release.  “While analysts suggest this may be a short-term reaction, it’s too early to know whether prices will stabilize before the holiday.” According to AAA, Florida drivers as of June 20 are paying $3.15 per gallon on average. That’s almost 40 cents less than last year’s holiday. 

AAA states that air travel is reaching record-breaking numbers nationwide, with 5.84 million people expected to fly, a 1.4% increase over last year’s previous high. 

“This figure exclusively represents domestic leisure travel, counting complete round-trip itineraries as a single trip,” officials state in a release. “This differs from TSA data, which tracks each individual airport screening separately and includes both domestic and international travel.”

Travelers booking last-minute can find better deals by flying Tuesdays or Wednesdays, according to AAA officials.

So, when is are the best and worst times to hit the road?

According to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, drivers should anticipate heavy road congestion on July 2 and July 6. The busiest times will be afternoons, while mornings offer the best escape from traffic.

AAA urges drivers to make sure their vehicle is ready for the road, as AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide during last year’s holiday period for issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks.

“We encourage travelers to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect their plans,” stated Haas. “Unexpected disruptions like flight delays, lost luggage, or medical emergencies can turn a dream vacation into a stressful experience. Travel insurance provides peace of mind, ensuring you can enjoy your Independence Day getaway with confidence.”

On the water

One of the busiest time of the year for America’s recreational boat owners is hands down the Fourth of July holiday period. It also may be the longest time many boaters will spend the day on the water at anchor, enjoying fireworks shows, fishing holes and raft-ups.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provides safety tips for safe boating not just on the 4th, but year-round:

• Wear a life jacket – According to recent boating accident statistics, half of all boating deaths are due to drowning.  This tragedy is preventable by  always wearing a life jacket while boating. Learn more about choosing the right life jacket.

• Be aware of your surroundings – A significant percentage of boating accidents are due to collisions attributed to operator inattention or improper lookout. Pay attention and maintain 360-degree awareness while operating a boat.

• Designate a sober driver – About a quarter of all boating accidents are alcohol- or drug-related. Plus, operating a vessel while impaired is illegal and operators can face arrest if found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  Celebrate after you’re done boating or make sure you have a designated driver.

• Take a Boating Safety Course – About three quarters of operators involved in fatal boating accidents have no formal boater education. An educated boater is a safer boater. All boat operators can benefit from taking a boating safety course, even those not required to complete one.

• Check your safety gear – In addition to all vessels being equipped with life jackets, boaters are also required to have a whistle or horn. In addition, the FWC recommends buying, registering and having an emergency locator beacon onboard. Boats also may be required to have lights, fire extinguisher and flares. See boating safety equipment requirements.

• File a Float Plan – Let family and friends know where you are going and when you expect to return.  The sooner rescuers can locate an overdue boater, the more likely the outcome will be positive. Download a float plan form.

• Know Where You’re Going – Familiarize yourself with local boating speed zones before setting out and always travel at a safe speed for environmental conditions. 

• Watch the Weather – Weather on the water can change rapidly. Always check the forecast before you go boating and keep an eye out for storms and rough seas.

• Consider an Engine Cut-Off Switch – Properly wearing a lanyard attached to an engine cut-off switch can shut the engine off if the operator falls overboard or is thrown from the proper operating position.

• Stay with the boat – If you find yourself in open water after an accident or your boat capsizes, do your best to stay with the boat even if it’s partially submerged. A vessel, even a small one, is more visible to rescuers so staying with the boat can increase your chances of being found.

• Report boating violations and dangerous or irresponsible vessel operation to the Wildlife Alert Program.

• Know and follow the rules. Learn more about regulations related to boaters, personal watercraft, skiers, divers, and snorkelers.