AAA: Fourth of July weekend chaos erupting amidst gas price spikes, labor shortages and flight cancellations

Inflation, rising cost of gasoline, and labor shortages are creating chaos at airports around the world this summer. More often than not, passengers are seeing high prices, delays, and cancelations in their trip plans. Data forecast experts say this Fourth of July weekend will be no different. 

According to AAA’s predictions, 42 million people will opt to travel by car this Independence Day weekend despite historically high gas prices. Additionally, more than 11 million Americans are scheduled to fly between Thursday and Monday. 

 “I think we will see this year’s passenger travel levels rival those of 2019 — despite airlines having less capacity than they did at that time,” said Adam Gordon, managing director and partner on Boston Consulting Group’s travel team.

To avoid mishaps and canceled plans, AAA has announced the best times to travel. “It is important that travelers are prepared and flexible to minimize stress and enjoy the holiday,” said AAA spokesperson Ellen Edmonds.

According to AAA, the best time to drive is on Thursday before 7 a.m. or after 8 p.m., when there are fewer cars on the road. Similarly, it’s better to return on Sunday than on Monday, in order to avoid the rush to head back home. 

“Leave during times when traffic will not be as heavy and look for lesser-known routes,” Edmonds suggested. The worst possible time to drive is between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Thursday or noon and 9 p.m. on Friday, she added. 

AAA data shows that the top ten driving destinations for Fourth of July are Orlando, Seattle, New York, Anaheim, Anchorage, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Honolulu, Denver, and Chicago. AAA recommends travelers heading to these cities to plan their trips ahead of time in order to avoid heavy congestion. 

For those who are flying this weekend, AAA suggests that passengers arrive at airports earlier than usual and expect long lines for check-in and go through security. The most popular times to fly this weekend are between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Mornings will probably be less congested. Similarly, flying on Saturday and returning on Monday might give you the best prices for tickets, with customers saving up to $70 a ticket, according to Hopper. 

“Have a Plan A, B and C,” Edmonds said, hoping the best for all the people traveling this weekend.