WALNUT CREEK – Despite record gas prices, summer travel is in full swing. AAA Northern California estimates travel for the 2022 Independence Day holiday will reach 98 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Even though the average price of gas in the U.S. is about $2 more per gallon than it was this time last year, 42 million Americans will travel by car, setting a new record for road trips.
“We started seeing demand for travel grow earlier this year and it isn’t tapering off,” said Rolando Flores, Senior Vice President of Membership and Travel for AAA Northern California. “Even though things are more expensive, people want to travel and they are finding ways to still take that much-needed break.”
Know Before You Go
- Plan, plan and then plan some more. Flights, car rentals, and accommodations are all in high demand, making it difficult to find last-minute deals. AAA Northern California says to plan and book your vacation early to get the best price.
- Be prepared. If you’re one of the over 4 million Californian’s planning a road trip, make sure your vehicle is ready. AAA expects to respond to over 446,000 calls for roadside assistance during the holiday weekend. Visit a AAA Auto Repair Center for a pre-trip check, and you’ll get a digital vehicle inspection with any paid service.
- Avoid holiday traffic. According to AAA booking data, the busiest day for air travel during the holiday period (June 30 – July 4) is Friday, July 1, with Monday, July 4 being the lightest. The Thursday and Friday before the holiday are expected to be peak traffic days for those driving.
- Don’t forget travel necessities. A recent AAA survey found that 51 percent of travelers forget to pack something when they travel. Download AAA Northern California’s “Stress-Less” Travel Checklist to become a packing pro and travel with confidence.
AAA Northern California advises travelers to seek the advice of a knowledgeable travel agent who can make sure your vacation is safe and enjoyable by being your advocate before, during and after a trip. To get started, visit AAA.com/Travel.
Methodology
In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence, a world-leading provider of financial information and solutions, developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. AAA and S&P Global Market Intelligence have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.
About AAA Northern California
AAA has a proud history of serving Members for over 100 years. AAA is on a mission to create Members for life by unleashing the innovative spirit of 4,600 employees representing 6 million Members across Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska. In addition to legendary roadside assistance, AAA offers home, auto and life insurance, travel and home security services. According to Via Magazine’s Smart Guide, being a AAA Member can save you more than $1,200 a year. Learn more at AAA.com.
