Texans Getting Out of Dodge for July 4

A record number plan to hit the road, and airports are bracing for huge crowds.

A record-breaking 5.6 million people are expected to roam Texas over the Fourth of July weekend, according to AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster.

"This will be an Independence Day for the record books." — Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas

The projected number of travelers represents a 5.2% increase over 2023. 90% of Texans—roughly 4.8 million people—are expected to travel by car, with highways likely to be packed. An additional 555,000 are expected to fly, with Texas skies busy too.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is bracing for a surge in travelers, with approximately 33,000 departing travelers expected on July 3. The airport suggests travelers arrive 2.5 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international flights. An online tool is available to check parking availability.

With a surge in breakdowns predicted, AAA recommends car travelers check their battery, fluid levels, and tires. Gas prices in Texas are about 10 cents lower than last year.

Nationwide, AAA estimates a record-breaking 70.9 million Americans will travel, with 60.6 million by car and 5.74 million by air.