Avoid The Traffic: Best & Worst Times To Drive On July 4th

If you're planning a road trip this Fourth of July, you may want to set your alarm clock early. A record number of Americans are expected to travel for the holiday, meaning highways across the country could get especially crowded. According to AAA, around 72.2 million people are expected to travel between June 27 and July 5, with 61.4 million of them hitting the road. The surge in travel comes as Americans celebrate not only Independence Day but also the nation's 250th birthday, with major events taking place across the country. Transportation analytics company INRIX recommends traveling in the morning whenever possible to avoid the worst congestion. June 29 and June 30 are expected to be the quietest days on the roads, while those setting out before noon on most travel days are likely to encounter lighter traffic. The busiest periods are expected to begin as early as June 27 and continue through the holiday weekend. Some of the worst delays are expected between noon and the evening on July 1, July 2 and July 3, as many travellers begin their long weekend getaways.