AAA projects that 1.52 million Marylanders will travel 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday period. The figure represents a slight increase compared to last year and more than 9% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Most travelers will choose to drive to their destinations, while other modes of transportation—including buses, trains and cruises—continue to see growth. Air travel remains steady, with a slight dip year-over-year but still above 2019 levels.
Here’s a quick look at Maryland Independence Day travel by the numbers:
- 1.52 million – Number of Marylanders expected to travel 50 miles or more from home, up 0.44% from 2025 and 9.35% higher than 2019.
- 1.35 million – Number of Maryland travelers expected to drive to their destinations, representing the vast majority of holiday travel. That’s up 0.36% from last year and 10.09% higher than 2019.
- 103,265 – Number of Marylanders expected to fly for the holiday. That’s down 0.75% compared to 2025, but still 7.61% above pre-pandemic levels.
- 67,164 – Number of travelers expected to use other modes of transportation, including buses, trains and cruises. That’s up 4.21% compared to last year.
- Nearly 90% – Share of travelers choosing to drive, reinforcing that road trips remain the most popular option for Independence Day travel.
- 72.2 million – Total number of travelers AAA projects nationwide, a slight increase from last year and a continuation of strong summer travel demand.
- $3.74 – Average price of a gallon of regular gas in Maryland, about 48 cents higher than this time last year (as of June 29).
- 687,103 – The number of emergency roadside assistance calls AAA answered nationwide during last year’s Independence Day holiday travel period – more than 11,000 of those calls were in Maryland.
Top reasons for emergency roadside calls during the Independence Day travel period 2025 were towing, battery issues and flat tires.
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says the second weekend of the holiday period will be the busiest on the roads, starting Thursday, July 2. Drivers looking to avoid the heaviest traffic should leave early in the day or consider traveling on Monday or Tuesday.
With millions of travelers expected to drive for the Independence Day holiday, AAA is urging drivers to make vehicle maintenance part of their pre-trip planning—especially with extreme heat in the forecast. High temperatures can put added stress on batteries, tires, cooling systems and other key vehicle components, increasing the risk of a roadside breakdown.
AAA recommends drivers check the battery, tires, cooling system, fluids, air conditioning, wipers and washer fluid before heading out. An emergency kit with water, nonperishable snacks, jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, a first-aid kit, phone chargers and any needed medications is also advised. In extreme heat, extra water is especially important for every passenger.
Never leave children, seniors or pets unattended in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Interior temperatures can rise quickly and become dangerous within minutes.
“A few minutes of preparation can make the difference between a smooth holiday getaway and a dangerous roadside delay,” said Ragina Ali, spokesperson for AAA in Maryland and Washington, D.C. “Extreme heat can take a toll on both drivers and vehicles, so motorists should make sure their car is road-trip ready before heading out for the Fourth of July.”
AAA reminds drivers that impaired driving is 100% preventable and urges everyone celebrating the holiday to make a plan before the festivities begin. Whether the impairment comes from alcohol or cannabis, no one should ever get behind the wheel unless they are sober and alert.
The summer travel season brings increased traffic and potential hazards. Officials urge all motorists to prioritize safety and make responsible choices behind the wheel.
