AAA projects more than 1.6 million will travel at least 50 miles from home in Wisconsin for the Independence Day holiday travel period, which runs through Sunday, July 5. 

More than 1.4 million will drive to their destinations. Air travel softened slightly, while cruising and other modes of transportation see the strongest growth.

This year’s increase sets a record for Fourth of July travel in Wisconsin, as strong consumer demand continues to offset higher travel costs.

“For many families, traveling for Independence Day isn’t just a trip, it’s a tradition,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group in a press release. “Vacations are one category where consumers are still willing to spend, even if that means cutting back on something else. With an extended holiday travel period, we expect busy roads, steady demand for flights, and continued interest in cruises across many parts of the country.”

On the national side, AAA projects 72 million Americans to travel during the Independence Day holiday period, setting another record despite a slower pace of growth. This year’s projection is only a half-percent increase from last year as rising inflationary pressures take a toll.

AAA projects 61 million people will travel by car, nearly the same number as last year. 85% of Americans traveling for Independence Day are expected to drive to their destinations.

Travel by other modes is seeing the biggest year-over-year growth compared to car and air travel. AAA projects 4.93 million Americans will take buses, trains, and cruises over Independence Day week, a 5.3% increase from last year.