Cheap Gas, Hotel Costs Increase Holiday Travel Numbers

AAAMore than 1-million Hoosiers will be traveling this holiday weekend according to analysts with AAA.

The lowest gas prices in more than 10 years are thought to be spurring increased travel during Independence Day. Across the nation, more than $20-billion has been saved by drivers this year compared to the previous year.

The travel period started Thursday and will continue through Monday. In that time, AAA predicts about 43-million Americans will travel by car, plane, train, or boat. Cruise ship bookings have increased 35-percent this year. Air travel has increased by about 2-percent.

Gas prices aren’t the only factor influencing consumers according to the report. Airfares and hotel rates are lower compared with last year’s Independence Day weekend.

Increased travel does not come without the added risk of stranding yourself. AAA expects to assist more than 370-thousand motorists during the July 4th holiday weekend.