A record number of Americans are set to hit the road and take to the skies for Independence Day, with nearly 71 million travelers expected between June 29 and July 7. This represents a 5% increase from last year and an 8% jump from 2019. With remote work flexibility and summer vacations in full swing, more people are opting for extended trips during the Fourth of July week. The worst times for traffic congestion are expected to be between 2 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Sunday. Travel experts recommend leaving early in the morning to avoid delays, as trips can take up to 67% longer than usual during busy holiday weekends. Safety concerns are heightened during the Fourth of July, with holidays historically showing an increase in fatal crashes, particularly among inexperienced younger drivers. Consider these factors if you plan to travel during the busy holiday period.