Independence Day Travel by the Numbers

AAA breaks down travel statistics compared to Independence Day 2011

 

 

Phoenix, Ariz. July 3, 2012. According to AAA’s annual Independence Day forecast, nearly 830,000 Arizonans will be taking to the roads and skies this week to celebrate the Fourth of July. 
 

The following table compares state and nationwide travel information for the upcoming holiday compared to last year:

 

Travel Statistics

2012

2011

Difference

Arizona’s average fuel price

$3.413

$3.410

+0.8 percent

National average fuel price

$3.329

$3.565

-6.1 percent

Total Arizona travelers (all modes)

829,077

789,433

+5 percent

Total U.S. travelers (all modes)

42.3 million

40.2 million

+5.2 percent

Arizona auto travelers

654,120

629,924

+3.8 percent

U.S. auto travelers

35.5 million

34.1 million

+4.1 percent

Arizona air travelers

88,238

80,509

+9.6 percent

U.S. air travelers

3.2 million

2.9 million

+9.6 percent

Average AAA Three Diamond hotel rate (nationwide)

$164

$157

+4 percent

Average rental car rate (nationwide)

$40

$44

-9 percent

Arizona median spending

$648

$1041

-37 percent

National median spending

$749

$807

-7.1 percent
 

 

Before taking to the road or sky this weekend, AAA encourages travelers to download the auto club’s free mobile apps. AAA apps for iPhone and Android devices use GPS navigation to help travelers map a route, locate nearby member discounts and find current gas prices. Travelers can learn about AAA apps and AAA Mobile Web at AAA.com/mobile.

 

Research for Independence Day travel projections are derived from IHS Global Insight, which conducts special research for AAA. The Fourth of July travel period is defined as trips that include travel of 50 miles or more during the five-day period from Tuesday, July 3, to Sunday, July 8. AAA has been reporting on holiday travel trends for more than two decades.

 

AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to more than 825,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Roadside Assistance responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on Arizona roadways. The auto club also provides insurance, travel, auto repair, discounts and financial services to AAA members. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.