An estimated 43 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home this holiday weekend, according to AAA.
"This is going to be the biggest volume of travel we've seen for Fourth of July ever on record," said Nick Jarmusz, Director of Public Affairs for AAA Wisconsin.
Jarmusz said a major reason for the increase is low gas prices. He said issues with some refineries around the Midwest have caused a modest rise in gas prices in recent months.
However, Jarmusz said gas is still significantly cheaper than it was at this time last year.
AAA reports the national average at $2.28/gallon for regular unleaded. In Wisconsin, the average price is currently $2.37/gallon.
"These are the lowest gas prices we've seen for a summer driving season in over a decade," Jarmusz said.
Calvin Williams said the lower price at the pump makes his holiday travel a bit more pleasant.
Williams and his wife stopped in Mequon while driving from Lansing, Michigan to Oconto County, Wisconsin, for a family get together.
"It makes it more affordable. It makes traveling a bit easier," Williams said. "It's just one less thing to think about."
Others said they prefer staying home and not dealing with heavy traffic.
"I don't like traffic jams. I avoid crowded airports at all costs if possible," said Joseph Martinez.
Martinez said he and his family will take in some fireworks locally and head to Pewaukee lake.
"I always like staying home for the Fourth of July," he said.
Jarmusz said traffic will be heavy all weekend. But he said drivers hoping to dodge major delays should avoid hitting the road on Friday afternoon and Monday afternoon.
