Independence Day celebrations are taking Americans far and wide this summer, according to a new study by AAA.

A record-breaking 44.2 million Americans reported plans to travel 50 miles or more this 4th of July via road, sky and rail — 1.25 million more than last year.

The Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as June 30–July 4.

According to the study, 37.5 million will drive to their destinations, an increase of 2.9 percent over last year; 3.44 million people will fly to their destination, increasing air travel by 4.6 percent; and 3.27 million travelers will look to other modes of transportation, including buses, trains and cruises.

“Combined, strong employment, rising incomes and higher consumer confidence bode well for the travel industry, in particular this Independence Day weekend,” said Bill Sutherland, senior vice president, travel and publishing, AAA.

The national average gas price is 4 cents cheaper than this same time last year, contributing to larger number of people hitting the road this summer. Another contributing factor, according to the study, is the lower price of airfares and car rentals over the holiday weekend. According to AAA’s Leisure Travel Index, average airfares for the top 40 domestic flight routes will be 10 percent lower this year, with an average round-trip ticket coming in at $186. Hotel costs remain the same as last year.

Where are people heading in their red, white and blue?

With new attractions debuting at popular theme parks, Orlando claims the No. 1 spot on the list of most-visited destinations for 2017 summer travel. Following Orlando in the top five are Vancouver, Cancún, Seattle and Punta Cana.

What are your 4^th of July travel plans? If you are traveling, how are you getting there? Email us and let us know!