up to date travel information

The Best Interactive Maps for the Latest COVID Travel Restrictions

We rounded up the best tools to help you figure out the mind-boggling, coronavirus-related travel requirements..

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United is regularly updating its COVID travel tool.

Courtesy of United

Figuring out where you can travel during the coronavirus pandemic has proven to be no small task. In the United States, the rules vary from state to state—some states have mandatory quarantines, others have COVID-19 testing requirements , and some have no entry restrictions at all . And they often differ depending on which state you are coming from and going to . The web of restrictions is equally complicated for international destinations . What’s worse, they’re constantly changing.

Thankfully, several companies and organizations have created dynamic, interactive domestic and international maps designed to provide the most up-to-date COVID-19 travel information. Here are the ones we have found to be most useful.

United Airlines’ Destination Travel Guide

Launched in September, United’s interactive map is available online as well as on the United mobile app. There is a United States and global version of the carrier’s Destination Travel Guide , a color-coded digital map that lets travelers know whether each state or country is closed, partially open, or fully open for travel. When you click on a state or country, a pop-up window indicates whether COVID-19 testing, a quarantine, and/or travel health forms are required for entry. You can then click on a “see more info” tab that reveals whether face coverings and social distancing are required and whether (and which) businesses are open, closed, or open with limitations.

The Destination Travel Guide is intended to be “a simple, easy tool that helps customers decide where to travel next,” United’s chief digital officer Linda Jojo said in a statement.

What we love about it: It’s really nice to have access to both domestic and international travel requirements all in one place. The global map is particularly thorough in that it allows users to enter any origin country and any destination country, which makes this a great tool for international travelers regardless of where they live or work.

The International Air Transport Association’s Interactive COVID-19 Map

If there is any entity that’s most in need of reliable and au courant information, it’s the global aviation industry. Enter the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) interactive world map , which offers the latest COVID-19 entry regulations by country.

This map provides up-to-the-minute (seriously, it’s updated more than 200 times per day) information on international travel restrictions based on your citizenship and country of residence.

The map is accessible both on desktop and mobile devices for easy access wherever you are. You can also sign up for a COVID-19 travel alert service, real-time notifications for all travel updates related to the pandemic (the alerts are not free—you have to contact IATA to get a quote).

What we love about it: You’d be hard-pressed to find an international travel resource updated as frequently as this one.

COVID Controls

This map combines travel information with the latest COVID-19 health data.

Courtesy of COVID Controls

Back in June, a COVID-19 travel tracking tool called COVID Controls was developed by Escape, a team of engineers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The smart international map they created (which also has state-by-state information for the U.S.) delivers a wide range of detail: mask mandates, arrival requirements, whether quarantine or testing is needed, and what kind of lockdown measures are in effect.

But what’s particularly helpful? It provides the latest coronavirus statistics: case counts, increases or decreases in cases over the last seven days, and whether the outbreak is trending towards containment or is on the rise.

What we love about it: You’ll often find either very thorough coronavirus updates, such as the Johns Hopkins University domestic and global tabulations regarding COVID-19 cases and deaths, or good travel resources, such as the United and IATA tools mentioned above. It’s really helpful to have a tool that brings both together.

When it comes to navigating travel restrictions amid the coronavirus pandemic, the best approach we have found is relying on a combination of sources. Cross reference maps such as these against news reports and updates issued directly by government agencies and tourism boards.

>> Next: Where Can Americans Travel Right Now?

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What is COVID-19?

Who can get covid-19, can i travel if i recently had covid-19, what can travelers do to prevent covid-19, more information.

CDC Respiratory Virus Guidance has been updated. The content of this page will be updated soon.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. The virus spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets and small particles produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus spreads easily in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor settings.

People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms   – ranging from no or mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus. Possible symptoms include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, new loss of taste and smell, sore throat, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Anyone can get COVID-19. However, some people are more likely than others to get very sick if they get COVID-19. These include people who are older, are  immunocompromised , or have certain  disabilities , or have  underlying health conditions .  Vaccination, past infection, and timely access to testing and treatment can help protect you from getting very sick from COVID-19.

Yes, you can travel once you have ended isolation . Check CDC guidance for additional precautions, including testing and wearing a mask around others. If you recently had COVID-19 and are recommended to wear a mask, do not travel on public transportation such as airplanes, buses, and trains if you are unable to wear a mask whenever around others.

Get  up to date  with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel and take steps to protect yourself and others . Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor areas, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs. Take additional precautions if you were recently exposed to a person with COVID-19. Don’t travel while sick.

If you have a  weakened immune system  or  are at increased risk for severe disease talk to a healthcare professional before you decide to travel.  If you travel, take multiple prevention steps to provide additional layers of protection from COVID-19, even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. These include improving ventilation and spending more time outdoors, avoiding sick people, getting tested for COVID-19 if you develop symptoms, staying home if you have or think you have COVID-19, and seeking treatment if you have COVID-19.

Consider getting travel insurance in case you need medical care abroad .

Consider getting a COVID-19 test if you:

• Develop COVID-19 symptoms before, during, or after travel.
• Will be traveling to visit someone who is at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19.
• Were in a situation with a greater risk of exposure during travel (e.g., in an indoor, crowded space like an airport terminal while not wearing a mask).

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare professional, and tell them about your recent travel.

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Report Travel Problems, Concerns & Complaints

Know before you go.

Think about what you need to do to get through screening quickly before you dress for travel or zip up your bags.

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• Check airport status and delays.
• Check out  Preparing to Fly  for more information.
• View TSA's checklist of Travel Tips.
• Pack Safe  before you fly.
• The Department of Transportation (DOT) launched an interactive Customer Service Dashboard to provide travelers with up-to-date airline customer service policies on controllable cancellations and delays to ensure customers have easy access to information when problems arise. Know your airline's policies in the event of a delay or cancellation.
• Enroll in TSA Pre Check

If you fly often, consider TSA's program for expedited screening at certain airports and airlines.

Passenger Health & Safety

To maintain good health, be aware of travel advisories and disease outbreaks at your destination.

• Fly Healthy .
• Research  travel advisories .
• Look up  travel health notices .

Flying for People with Disabilities, Children, and Pets

• Information about Family Travel
• If you or someone you know will require accommodations while flying, read about  Passengers with Disabilities .
• If you are flying with children, review FAA's guidance about  Child Safety .
• If you are bringing pets or service animals, read about  Flying with Pets .
• Find out if your airline has a commitment to free family seating with DOT's Airline Family Seating Dashboard .
• Show your youngest travelers what to expect with our Kid's First Flight video .

Check for Prohibited items

Use the " Can I bring? " app and the " MyTSA " app to find helpful information about TSA policies and procedures.

• Review information about flying with your  portable electronic devices  (PEDs).
• Can you fly with batteries, medical devices or lighters? Review  Pack Safe  guidance.
• View  TSA Prohibited Items .
• Check out  Flying Safe  for more resources.

3-1-1 for Liquids

Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must be 3.4 ounces or less.

• All bottles must fit in a single quart size plastic bag and the bag must be placed in a bin for screening.
• Screening may be required for sun block, tanning sprays, and food such as yogurt.
• Review  TSA's 3-1-1 for Liquids rule .

Prepare for Security

Have an acceptable ID and your boarding pass ready.

• View your airport's security wait time .
• Remove large electronics including laptops and your quart size liquids bag from carry-on luggage.
• Put any metallic clothing or objects, as well as your cell phone, into a bin for screening.

You may also need to  report a travel problem, concern, or complaint .

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Coronavirus: latest news, advice and travel information

Stay up to date with the latest coronavirus guidance and developments around the world

Photograph: Shutterstock

To check the current coronavirus measures and travel guidelines for your country, click here  or see our local FAQ pages for...

Latest rules in Barcelona Latest rules in Chicago Latest rules in Hong Kong Latest rules in London Latest rules in Los Angeles Latest rules in Madrid Latest rules in Melbourne Latest rules in Mexico City Latest rules in Miami Latest rules in Montreal Latest rules in New York Latest rules in Paris Latest rules in Portugal Latest rules in Singapore Latest rules in Sydney Latest rules in Tokyo

At this point, it goes without saying that coronavirus has shaken up all of our day-to-day lives. 

So far the virus has spread across six continents, and citizens of more than 100 countries have been under orders to stay at home.

With events constantly changing, we’ve put together this handy FAQ to bring you some help, tips and perspective. Life has come to involve a whole lot more Netflix and takeaways (and a whole lot less going out) than before – which is why we’ve temporarily changed our name to Time In .

Of course, the most important thing right now is to stay clued up on the official advice , as detailed below. Think you’re coming down with something? Want to know what social distancing means in your country? Stay up to date with our guide to the latest coronavirus guidance and developments.

What is coronavirus?

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) is a respiratory illness that started in animals and is now being transmitted between humans. The symptoms include coughs, fever, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. First identified in Wuhan, China, the virus has (as of June 1) affected more than six million people in 213 countries and territories. More than 370,000 have died, while around 2.6 million have already recovered. On March 11 the World Health Organisation labelled the outbreak a pandemic.

How bad is coronavirus?

Unlike flu, there is no vaccine (yet), and recovery depends on the strength of the immune system. In severe cases the virus may cause pneumonia and/or organ failure.

Compared to Sars (another coronavirus that hit headlines in 2003), the mortality rate of Covid-19 is low: around 3.4 percent according to the latest WHO estimate. This is, however, significantly higher than regular seasonal flu, which is fatal in around 0.1 percent of cases. So far, Covid-19 also appears to be more contagious than seasonal flu.

The elderly and those with long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease are most likely to develop a severe illness relating to Covid-19. The death rate is ten times higher among the very elderly compared with the middle-aged, according to the  WHO . Children are less likely to be affected.

Which countries have been worst hit by coronavirus?

There have been serious outbreaks all around the world. As of June 1, there have been more than 1.8 million confirmed cases in the US, around 515,000 in Brazil, some 420,000 in Russia and more than 275,000 in the UK. You can keep track of the spread of the disease on this map created by Johns Hopkins University . The WHO advises against travelling to areas experiencing ongoing transmission of Covid-19.

To check the current coronavirus measures and travel guidelines for your country, click here .

How will coronavirus affect my day-to-day life?

First: don’t panic.

The spread of the virus outside China wasn’t unexpected, and governments have been sharing information and regularly updating advice.

When it comes to personal hygiene, the WHO recommends regularly washing hands with soap; carrying and using alcohol-based hand sanitiser; refraining from touching your nose and mouth; and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

If you’re in the UK

As of March 24, the government has ordered everyone to stay at home to help stop the spread of coronavirus – even if you don’t have any symptoms or an underlying health condition.

You can only leave home to shop for basic essentials such as food and medicine; to do unlimited exercise; for any medical need, like visiting a pharmacy or delivering essential supplies to a vulnerable person; or to travel to and from work (but only if you absolutely can’t work from home).

From June 1, anyone who lives in England can also meet up in groups of six outdoors – but you must maintain a two-metre distance with anyone not in your household. 

See the  NHS  website for more information.  Note that the rules differ in Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland .

If you’re in the US

Different states have recommended different degrees of social-distancing measures. Wherever you are, however, the  CDC  now advises avoiding all unnecessary contact with other people. You should work from home whenever possible, and avoid social gatherings and discretionary travel. 

If you are mildly ill and think you may have the virus, then you can recover at home. If you develop any emergency warning signs , such as trouble breathing, then you should get medical attention immediately.

If you’re in Australia

The Department of Health recommends Australians practise social distancing. That means staying at home when you are unwell; avoiding large public gatherings; keeping a distance of 1.5 metres between you and others; and reducing physical contact, especially with higher-risk people such as the elderly and those with physical health conditions. 

States including Queensland , Victoria and New South Wales  are gradually lifting lockdown restrictions (but very much at different rates). Check your local authority website to stay clued up on the latest rules.

If you think you have symptoms of Covid-19, you should stay at home and call the coronavirus health information line on 1800 020 080.

Should I avoid travelling because of coronavirus?

In the UK, the Foreign Office (FCO) has advised against all non-essential international travel ‘indefinitely’. The  Australian government  has also advised against all but essential international travel. The  US  is advising against all non-essential travel to an increasing number of countries because of Covid-19.

There are now travel restrictions, border closures and health checks in place in many countries. If you’ve recently been to certain badly affected areas, entry to other countries may be denied or you could be placed in quarantine.

Here’s everything we know so far about when we might be able to travel again  – and see below for your government’s latest official travel advice.

What are the official guidelines for my country?

– Australia Travel advice Coronavirus information

– Canada Travel advice Coronavirus information

– China National Health Commission Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention

– France Travel advice Coronavirus information

– Germany Travel advice Coronavirus information

– Italy Travel advice Coronavirus information

– Japan Travel advice Coronavirus information

– New Zealand Travel advice Coronavirus information

– Singapore Travel advice Coronavirus information

– South Korea Korea Tourism Organization Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

– Thailand Travel advice Coronavirus information

– United Kingdom Travel advice Coronavirus information

– United States Travel advice Coronavirus information

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Find out how coronavirus is affecting countries around the world

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● Development of illness while in transit [ 2 ]

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The pretravel evaluation should provide advice about the risks for vaccine-preventable infections, the appropriate immunizations, and prophylaxis against travelers' diarrhea and malaria [ 3 ]. It should also include advice about behavioral precautions and environmental exposures.

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Hemispheres

United Airlines Magazine

How to Stay Up to Date with the Latest COVID-19 Travel Restrictions

By Sara Hetland May 1, 2021

With Memorial Day around the corner, the year’s brightest season is nearly here. To get those vacation vibes going, make sure you’re prepared for your next flight—especially if you haven’t traveled in a while. Here are a few tips.

Get this summer’s hottest accessory:

Download the United app for a touch-less airport experience. You can check in for your flight, change your seat, and more.

Ensure you’re travel-ready:

If you have a trip booked, just enter your information at united.com/travelready or on the United app. The Travel-Ready Center allows you to see up-to-date travel restrictions and COVID-19 testing requirements, as well as to schedule a COVID-19 test and upload your test results, if necessary.

Unload your baggage:

Rather than waiting until the last minute to sort out your checked bags, we recommend paying for them ahead of time online or during online check-in. Then you won’t have to fuss with a credit card at the airport.

Find assistance at a distance:

When you get to the airport and need some support at the gate, you no longer have to leave your chair. Instead, scan one of the nearby QR codes, which allow you to call, text, or video chat with a live agent about anything you’d typically ask a gate agent.

Everyone ages 2 and up still needs to wear a face mask throughout the airport and on their flights, so make sure you’ve packed a mask (or two) alongside your sunscreen.

Stay up to date:

Visit united.com/whatsnew for the latest on how we’re making your upcoming summer travels as hassle-free as possible. We look forward to sending you off on your next trip.

Next Up:  How to Get Tested for COVID-19 Before Your Next United Flight

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Where to find up-to-date travel Information

We must also be aware of the ever-changing travel requirements in different countries across the world. Here we have compiled a list of our most trusted websites where we source the most up to date travel information every day.

Please make yourself aware of travel requirements to destinations you planning to visit and regularly check these links in the days leading up to your departure and return in case of any changes.

Travel Within Europe:   Re-Open EU

This website provides information on the various measures in place, including quarantine and testing requirements for travellers, the EU Digital Covid Certificate, as well as other travel requirements. 

The information on this site is updated frequently and will be able to help you plan your travel within Europe, while staying safe and healthy.  Click here to visit this website.

Global Travel:  UNWTO/IATA Destination Tracker

The UNWTO/IATA Travel Tracker is the first global dashboard on Air Travel Restrictions and Health-related Travel Requirements at the destination. This is a one stop shop for global travel information on Covid-19 related travel requirements and it’s here to help provide you with a seamless journey.

Information on this website is updated regularly by both the UNWTO and IATA who are acting collaboratively to ensure you are aware of the most up to date travel requirements.  Click here to visit this website.

Global Travel:  The DFA

 The Ireland Department of Foreign Affairs provides us with information on travelling to different destinations as well as useful information such as travelling with children, returning to Ireland, and more.

The information on this website will help you make informed decisions when you’re planning your trip overseas and is updated frequently.  Click here to visit the DFA website.

Travel information

Why you should book your next holiday with travel counsellors, find your personal travel counsellor.

We have more than 1,900 independent Travel Counsellors worldwide, each with the expertise and passion to create your perfect trip and take care of every detail, every step of your journey.

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Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines

What you need to know.

• CDC recommends the 2023–2024 updated COVID-19 vaccines—Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax—to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.
• Everyone aged 5 years and older ‡  should get  1 dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.
• Children aged 6 months–4 years may need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccines to be up to date , including at least 1 dose of updated COVID-19 vaccine.
• People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may get additional doses of updated COVID-19 vaccine.
• People aged 65 years and older who received 1 dose of any updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna or Novavax) should receive 1 additional dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine at least 4 months after the previous updated dose. For more Novavax information, click or tap here.
• COVID-19 vaccine recommendations will be updated as needed.
• People who are up to date have lower risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19 than people who are unvaccinated or who have not completed the doses recommended for them by CDC.

Recommendations for Everyone Aged 5 Years and Older

Everyone aged 5 years and older ‡  should get  1 dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against serious illness from COVID-19. None of the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines is preferred over another .

Children aged 5 years – 11 years who are not vaccinated or have gotten previous COVID-19 vaccine(s)

Children aged 5 years – 11 years who are unvaccinated or have previously gotten a COVID-19 vaccine before September 12, 2023, should get 1 updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

People aged 12 years and older who are not vaccinated

People aged 12 years and older who are unvaccinated should get either:

• 1 updated Pfizer-BioNTech  or updated Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, OR  
• 2 doses of updated Novavax COVID-19 vaccine .  

More details: Up to Date

3-8 weeks after 1st dose

People aged 12 years and older who got previous COVID-19 vaccine(s)

People aged 12 years and older who got Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines before September 12, 2023, or Novavax COVID-19 vaccine before October 3, 2023, should get  1 updated Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax COVID-19 vaccine.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines

Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine Moderna Vaccine Novavax Vaccine

‡12 years and older: People aged 12 years and older who have not previously gotten any COVID-19 vaccine doses and choose to get Novavax should get 2 doses of updated Novavax vaccine to be up to date .

People Aged 65 years and Older

People aged 65 years and older who have not previously received any COVID-19 vaccine doses and choose to get Novavax should get 2 doses of updated Novavax vaccine, followed by 1 additional dose of any updated 2023–2024 COVID-19 vaccine to be up to date.

To find COVID-19 vaccine locations near you:  Search  vaccines.gov , text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233.

Recommendations for Children Aged 6 Months – 4 Years

Children who are not vaccinated.

Children aged 6 months–4 years should get two or three doses of updated COVID-19 vaccine depending on which vaccine they receive.

3–8 weeks after 1st dose

At least 8 weeks after 2nd dose

Note: Children this age may receive Moderna vaccines after the first or second Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in some situations .

4–8 weeks after 1st dose

Note: Children this age may receive Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines after the first Moderna vaccine in some situations .

Children Who Got Previous COVID-19 Vaccine(s)

Children aged 6 months–4 years who got COVID-19 vaccines before September 12, 2023, should get one or two doses of updated COVID-19 vaccine depending on which vaccine and the number of doses they’ve previously received.

One Previous Dose

Two or More Previous Doses

At least 8 weeks after the last dose

4–8 weeks after the last dose

Recommendation for People Who May Get Additional Updated COVID-19 Vaccines

People ages 65 years and older should receive 1 additional dose of any updated (2023–2024 formula) COVID-19 vaccine (i.e., Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax) at least 4 months following the previous dose of updated (2023–2024 Formula) COVID-19 vaccine.

For information on additional doses for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, click or tap here .

When Are You Up to Date?

People aged 5 – 64 years.

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Traveling During a Heat Wave: Tips and Precautions

It’s summer and the temperature is rising. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

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By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Follow our updates for the latest on the heat wave across the U.S.

It’s set to be another scorching summer, with extreme and prolonged heat waves forecast across many parts of the United States and Europe.

The stifling conditions could impact millions of travelers and wreak havoc on vacations at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Multiple heat-related deaths among tourists have been reported in Greece and Saudi Arabia in June following extreme temperatures in the Middle East and Aegean regions. Even those who have booked trips in traditionally cooler places may not be spared from the summer heat because of the growing unpredictability of weather patterns.

Here are some tips on how to manage high temperatures when traveling in a heat zone.

Check government guidance

If a heat wave has been forecast at your destination, check government websites before embarking on your trip to give yourself plenty of time to plan and adapt. In extreme temperatures, governments often issue heat advisories warning people to stay indoors during peak heat hours and provide resources to help residents and visitors stay cool. In the United States, the National Integrated Heat Health Information System has a website with information and tools to help prevent illness and death during excessive heat.

Tourist attractions also provide important updates about the conditions at the sights, including any scheduled closures, as a precaution against high temperatures. Some cities grappling with intensive heat, like Los Angeles, Miami, Athens and Melbourne, have assigned chief heat officers to prepare for the heat waves and lead emergency responses.

Avoid peak sun hours

It may seem obvious, but staying outdoors for prolonged periods of time when the sun is at its peak can put many at risk of heat exhaustion. Even if the temperature does not read exceptionally high, excessive dry heat or humidity can make an environment feel hotter than it is.

Travel advisers are adapting itineraries, putting sightseeing in the cooler early morning and evening hours and prebooking tickets for their clients so they do not have to wait in long lines.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

Hiking in the middle of the day is also not advised. On June 5, Dr. Michael Mosley, a British medical journalist, died during an afternoon hike in a 104-degree heat wave on the Greek Island of Symi. Four more tourists, including an American man , have recently died in Greece as temperatures have continued to soar.

“I would always recommend going hiking with a certified local guide and under no circumstances alone,” said Franziska Basso, a Milan-based travel adviser for Dreamsteam Exclusive Travel . “Of course, avoid the hottest hours of the day. Go hiking very early in the morning. And always stick to official hiking trails.”

In some European cities, including Paris and London, air conditioning is not a given, so check if it is available before booking a hotel, restaurant or transportation to ensure you have a cool place to find respite from the scorching heat. Visiting a museum or other indoor sightseeing is another good option, but expect crowds at peak hours.

Stay hydrated and take a siesta

Dehydration and heatstroke are among the most common causes of hospitalization during heat waves and can be prevented by staying hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption. During meals, consider eating foods like melons, cucumbers and celery as it can help to sustain hydration throughout the day. Always carry a water bottle with you and consider a parasol and portable fan to help keep you cool and shaded when outdoors.

While your itinerary may be packed with activities and tours, the heat can take a toll on stamina, so consider following the European siesta ritual by breaking up your day with a short nap.

“I’m telling my clients to adapt their itineraries and take advantage of the after-lunch siesta and then push their tours to later in the day when it’s cooler,” said Sarah Johnson, who owns Paper Ink & Passports Travel, a luxury travel company based in Pennsylvania. “There’s a reason they’ve been doing it in Spain and Italy for generations. Walking around in the midday heat and waiting in line could really hurt some people.”

Wear cool clothing

The National Weather Service recommends lightweight, loosefitting, light-colored clothing for outdoor use as it reflects heat and sunlight . Hats and sunscreen are also recommended to protect the face and scalp from harmful UV rays.

Just because it’s hot, doesn’t mean it will be dry. Heat waves can bring torrential rainfall, so be prepared.

“My biggest advice to travelers is to be prepared — for hot or cold, dry or wet weather since one never knows,” said Laurel Brunvoll, the owner of Unforgettable Trips , a Maryland-based travel agency. “Pack layers.”

Book a flexible trip

Even after taking all the right precautions, traveling in a heat wave can be miserable, making it worthwhile to make flexible bookings and purchase “cancel for any reason” travel insurance to have the option to postpone your trip to a cooler time.

Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. Travelers booking through a Sensible partner in the United States will be able to add daily protection that will allow them to claim reimbursement for a booking if the temperature exceeds a threshold that is usually set between 90 and 100 degrees.

“Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder, who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold.

For more travel advice, visit our collection of Travel 101 tips and hacks.

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

What to Know During Extreme Heat

Staying Safe:  We asked emergency room doctors for their advice on protecting yourself  from dehydration, heat stroke and other serious health problems.

Heat’s Physical Toll:  High temperatures can put the body under immense stress. Here’s what it looks like .

Effect on the Brain:  While heat can have an alarming impact on our bodies, it can also impair cognition and make us irritable, impulsive and aggressive .

Keeping Cool Indoors:  Too hot to go outside? Here’s how to be comfortable in your home  — with or without air-conditioning.

Sleeping Tips:  Heat can affect both how much you sleep and how good that sleep is. These simple steps  can help you get a better night’s rest when it’s hot.

Medications:  Certain antidepressants, blood pressure pills and other drugs make you more susceptible to heat-related illness .

Travel:  Stifling conditions could impact your travel plans this summer. Use these tips and precautions  to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

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Visit the Australian Passport Office for more about passports.

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Boston Celtics Victory Parade and Traffic Advisory

The City of Boston will host a duck boat parade on Friday, June 21, 2024, to celebrate the Celtics winning their 18th NBA Championship.

• Last updated: June 21, 2024

Parade Route and Map

The parade will begin at 11 a.m. on Causeway Street and then follow Staniford Street to Cambridge Street to Tremont Street to Boylston Street, before ending near the Hynes Convention Center.

Download the map (pdf)

Public Transportation

Those attending the parade are strongly encouraged to use public transportation. Riders can find more information on MBTA service, parking, paying fares, and more during Friday’s Celtics Championship Parade on the MBTA's website . 

The MBTA will have increased subway service and modified Commuter Rail schedules with additional train times before and after the parade. Riders are strongly encouraged to purchase roundtrip fares in advance.

Accessibility

The parade route will include two designated accessible viewing areas - on City Hall Plaza on the Cambridge Street side and outside of the Boston Public Library on Boylston Street.  There is no reserved seating at these viewing areas. 

Bluebikes, the regional bike share service, is another great way to get around the City. Information on passes and station locations may be found on the Bluebikes website .

Parking Restrictions (No Parking)

• Causeway Street , Both sides from North Washington Street to Merrimac Street
• Staniford Street , Both sides from Causeway Street to Cambridge Street
• Cambridge Street , Both sides from Staniford Street to Tremont Street
• Tremont Street , Both sides from Cambridge Street to Boylston Street
• Boylston Street , Both sides from Washington Street to Massachusetts Avenue
• Charles Street South , Both sides from Park Plaza to Boylston Street
• Charles Street , Both sides from Beacon Street to Boylston Street
• Arlington Street , Both sides from Newbury street to Saint James Avenue
• Berkeley Street , Both sides from Saint James Avenue to Newbury Street
• Clarendon Street , Both sides from Saint James Avenue to Newbury Street
• Dartmouth Street , Both sides from Newbury Street to Saint James Avenue
• Exeter Street , Both sides from Newbury Street to Blagden Street
• Fairfield Street , Both sides from Boylston Street to Newbury Street
• Gloucester Street , Both sides from Boylston Street to Newbury Street
• Hereford Street , Both sides from Boylston Street to Newbury Street
• Cambria Street , Both sides, from Boylston Street to end at Hynes Center garage 
• Scotia Street , Both sides, from Saint Cecilia Street to Dalton Street 
• Saint Cecilia Street , Both sides, from Belvidere Street to Boylston Street
• Dalton Street , Both sides, from Belvidere Street to Boylston Street
• Providence Street , Both sides, from Arlington Street to Berkeley Street
• West Street , Both sides, from Washington Street to Tremont Street
• Temple Place , Both sides, from Washington Street to Tremont Street
• Bromfield Street , Both sides, from Washington Street to Tremont Street
• Park Street , Both sides, from Tremont Street to Beacon Street
• Beacon Street , Both sides, from Somerset Street to Tremont Street
• School Street , Both sides, from Tremont Street to Province Street
• Somerset Street , Both sides, from Ashburton Place to Cambridge Street
• New Chardon Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Merrimac Street (Congress Street)
• Bowdoin Street , Both sides, from Dern Street to Cambridge Street
• New Sudbury Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Hawkins Street
• Congress Street , Both sides, from New Sudbury Street to State Street
• State Street , Both sides, from Congress Street to Court Street
• Court Street , Both sides, from Washington Street to Cambridge Street
• New Chardon Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Merrimac Street (Congress Street) 
• Staniford Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Merrimac Street 
• Lomasney Way , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Nashua Street 
• Lancaster Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Merrimac Street 
• Portland Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Friend Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Canal Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Haverhill Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Beverly Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Medford Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to North Washington Street 
• Plympton Street , Both sides, from Albany Street to Harrison Avenue 
• East Dedham Street , Both sides, from Harrison Avenue to Albany Street 

Public Safety

Please note:.

• Underage and public drinking of alcohol will not be tolerated.
• Boston Police and Boston EMS will have a large presence along the parade route.
• The Office of Emergency Management will also have misting tents out to provide cooling relief at City Hall Plaza and the Boston Common, along with cooling towels.
• Residents are encouraged to sign up for AlertBoston emergency notifications  for the latest updates.

Be aware of the heat

While the  previously declared heat emergency  will have ended by Friday, first responders will be ready to help those feeling adverse effects from the heat. Please remember to stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

Read the public safety update

Before you embark on a summer vacation, check out these suggestions for better travels

Here are 18 travel tips sure to make your next vacation a smoother experience:

1. It's best to always keep a travel checklist of items that you can update as you gain experience in your travels. I always check mine two to three times before I ever walk out the door.

2. If traveling abroad, carry an extra copy of your passport in a separate piece of luggage or on your phone. That will make it a lot easier to obtain an emergency replacement if you lose your original. Generally, it is never a good idea to carry your original around with you on the streets.

3. Always double-check all your confirmations of airline flights, hotels, rental cars. Too many vacations have been ruined because of a date error on a reservation.

4. If you are faced with suddenly having to rebook flights and hotels, often travel providers have “chat” features on their apps, which is a quicker communication method than being on hold for an hour or more.

More: Traveling abroad? Respect customs, traditions. Don't disregard local laws | Opinion

5. Always know the currency foreign exchange of the countries to which you are traveling. Avoid being taken advantage of by hotels, restaurants, etc. that want to do currency exchanges for you at unfavorable rates. The FOREX website is the best place to check exchange rates. Resist the urge to have it charged in U.S. dollars when you settle the bill.

6. Some countries will give you a more favorable rate if you exchange new, undamaged U.S. $100 bills at exchange kiosks.

7. If you want to have a little bit of foreign currency before you land, you can go to a major bank or AAA in the United States and have them order currency for you. However, be aware, even though they tell you there is “no fee,” the fee gets taken out by a less-than-favorable exchange rate.

8. I always have two to three alternate travel routes in mind before I ever go to the airport in case of cancellations. You are in a more powerful position if you know your alternate options.

9. Make sure you have pre-selected your phone plans for calls and texts. Understand the limits of your plan when out of the country to avoid high surcharge surprises

More: We want to hear from you | What travel precautions, preparations do you take to avoid delays?

10. Carry only a minimum amount of cash with you on the streets of a strange city or country. Pickpockets abound in many countries.

11. Most pickpockets depend on distraction to complete their task. “Distraction is always followed by extraction!"

12. Split up your credit cards to avoid one person carrying all of them.

13. Don’t put your medicine in a checked bag. It may not show up for two weeks.

14. If you take several medications, it is best to keep a list of those in case you need to replace them in a travel destination.

15. Make sure you explicitly understand your travel medical insurance policies in the event something happens such as illness or needed medical evacuation. Certain credit cards cover these types of events. Know those credit card policies. The devil is in the details!

16. On vacation, I always try to take some clothes that are at “end of life.” I can leave those behind as I go. Often a maid at a hotel or bed and breakfast knows someone who can use them. If you give them to the hotel maid, attach a note with them so management will know you gave them away.

17. Don’t overpack! You can buy just about anything you need in your travels ― unless you are going to Mt. Everest. Packing large containers of toiletries doesn’t make sense when you can buy them along the way if you run out.

18. The last thing to do before you walk out the door is to set the thermostat at minimum settings. You don’t want to pay for energy bills when you're not using your house.

Steve Barrymore, of Oklahoma City, has been a lifelong world traveler with recent emphasis on Latin America where he has attended over a dozen Spanish language immersion programs in nine different Spanish-speaking countries .

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• Disrupted flights due to IALPA industrial action

Flight Schedules from 26th June and the impact of IALPA industrial action

We understand this has caused major disruption to both our customers and our flight schedules. A full list of cancelled flights is located further down on this page.

We plan to operate the majority of our schedule and have taken steps to minimise disruption. The nature of this industrial action may lead to further cancellations and delays and we will communicate directly with impacted customers as soon as possible.

The most up to date flight information can be found on our flight status tool or on the mobile app.

All Aer Lingus Regional flights (operated by Emerald Airlines) and Aer Lingus UK transatlantic flights to and from Manchester will operate as scheduled.

We continue to provide customers with bookings to travel between 26th June and 2nd July the option to change flights, or request refunds or vouchers.

Customers with cancelled flights

Customers whose flights are impacted will be communicated to directly via email/SMS, or through their travel agent, advising of their options. While we will endeavour to reaccommodate customers where possible the levels of disruption may not make this possible.

The following flights will be cancelled (as of 18.00, Monday June 24th):

For customers scheduled to travel between 26th June and 2nd July, we have made the below options available.

Options for all customers

While we endeavour to fly as much of our schedule as possible we understand some customers may wish to change their plans, or choose not to travel. To accommodate this all customers with flights between June 26th and July 2nd can avail of the below options.

For bookings made directly with Aer Lingus:

• Change your flight online Aer Lingus will waive the fare difference and change fee if you rebook your flights to a later date. Any fare difference will be reimbursed for changes within the same cabin type (Business/Economy) as your original booking. Submit your reimbursement request .
• Request a refund voucher for future travel You can apply for a refund voucher for the full value of your flight, all vouchers are eligible for use for 5 years from the date of issue. See terms and conditions .
• Request a refund You can apply for a refund to the original form of payment, for the full value of your flight.

For bookings made through travel agents or another airlines:

Or for bookings where your itinerary includes a flight with another airline (other than Aer Lingus Regional operated by Emerald Airlines)

• For bookings made through a third-party e.g. a travel agent or another airline, please contact them directly for information on your available options. Unfortunately, Aer Lingus is unable to assist directly in these cases.
• If you made your booking through Aer Lingus but your itinerary includes a flight operated by another airline (other than Aer Lingus Regional operated by Emerald Airlines), please contact us to rebook the flight.

My journey includes a flight operated by another airline, in addition to an impacted Aer Lingus flight,

If you booked with Aer Lingus and your itinerary includes a flight operated by another airline (other than Aer Lingus Regional operated by Emerald Airlines), you will need to contact us to manage your booking.

• All Aer Lingus Regional flights, operated by Emerald Airlines (Flight Numbers: EI3000 – EI3999)
• All Aer Lingus UK transatlantic flights to/from Manchester

They are unaffected by this industrial action, and we look forward to welcoming you on board.

We know that you may want to speak with us directly, but please be aware that our contact centres are experiencing a high volume of calls. This means waiting times are longer than usual.

Questions you may have

General questions.

The Irish Air Line Pilots’ Association (IALPA) has informed Aer Lingus that its members will engage in industrial action from Wednesday, 26 June 2024. Unfortunately, due to the nature of this industrial action, customers may be affected through delays and cancellations. If your flight is affected, we will contact you directly by email/SMS, or through your travel agent to advise you of your options.

Aer Lingus is making three new options available to customers who have bookings between 26 June 2024 and 2 July 2024 inclusive. While many Aer Lingus flights will operate as scheduled, the nature of this industrial action means there may be significant delays and cancellations. For customers who wish to reconsider their travel plans, we have the following options:

• Request a refund You can apply for a refund to the original form of payment for the full value of your flight.

Our focus is on communicating with impacted customers as soon we can and advising them of their options. We’ve added extra resources within our call centres to assist customer queries. This page will be updated with the most up-to-date information. Where customers are affected by delays or cancellations, Aer Lingus will be in touch directly by phone/email/SMS or through your travel agent to advise you of your options.

If your flight is cancelled for any reason, Aer Lingus will offer the following options:

• If you booked through a third-party (travel or online agent or another airline), we will notify the original sales agent of the change to your itinerary. To receive updates directly, please contact us to update your contact details.
• Change your booking online
• Request a voucher for future travel
• Request a cash refund

View full details of your rights under Regulation (EC) 261/2004 .

Yes. Aer Lingus Regional flights, operated by Emerald Airlines, will not be subject to any industrial action. Aer Lingus Regional flight numbers are in the range EI 3000 – EI 3999.

This work to rule industrial action by IALPA pilots will also not impact transatlantic flights scheduled to/from Manchester. Direct flights between Manchester and New York JFK and Orlando are operated by Aer Lingus UK.

Aer Lingus Regional services to and from Belfast–Great Britain, operated by Emerald Airlines, will not be affected by any industrial relations action and will operate as scheduled. Aer Lingus Regional flight numbers are in the range EI 3000 – EI 3999.

If your booking was made with a travel agent or another airline, you will need to contact them to manage your refund/rebooking options. Please note that if you made your booking with a travel agent or another airline, you may not apply for a refund voucher but can apply for a cash refund.

Questions on cancellations

If you booked directly with aerlingus.com or through our mobile app, and] your itinerary does not include any flights with another carrier (other than an Aer Lingus Regional flight operated by Emerald Airlines):

Please see information on your rights under Regulation (EC) 261/2004 .

If you booked through a travel agent or another airline or your itinerary includes a flight with another airline (other than Aer Lingus Regional operated by Emerald Airlines):

• For bookings made through a travel agent or another airline, please contact them directly to manage your booking. Unfortunately, Aer Lingus is unable to assist directly in these cases.
• If you made your booking through Aer Lingus but your itinerary includes a flight operated by another airline (other than Aer Lingus Regional operated by Emerald Airlines), please contact us to manage your booking.
• Please note in relation to bookings made with a travel agent or another airline, you may not apply for a refund voucher but you can apply for a cash refund.

While Aer Lingus Regional flights operated by Emerald Airlines, will operate as scheduled, we advise customers whose itinerary includes an onward connection not to travel if their connecting flight is cancelled. Instead, you may choose one of the options listed above.

Teams across Aer Lingus are doing their best to find alternative flights for customers where possible. However, as it is peak summer, there is limited availability. If we are able to identify a new flight for you, we will contact you using the email address in the booking with a new itinerary.

If we cannot identify an alternative flight you will receive an email from us outlining your options to rebook your Aer Lingus flight or request a voucher or refund. Please see ‘What are my options if my flight has been cancelled?’.

If we have been able to rebook you on another flight, we will send you an email confirming this and your new itinerary. This email will be sent in the coming days using the contact details given upon booking. Please be advised that teams in Aer Lingus are doing their best to accommodate customers whose flights have been cancelled. However, as we are in peak summer, there is limited capacity.

If the new flight is not suitable you can still choose to rebook, request a voucher, or avail of a refund to your original form of payment, as outlined in ‘What are my options if my flight has been cancelled?’.

If your booking was made with a travel agent, or through another airline, you will have to contact them to manage your options. Please note if you made your booking with a travel agent or another airline, you may not apply for a refund voucher but you can apply for a cash refund.

If we have been able to rebook you on another flight, we will send you an email confirming this and your new itinerary. This email will be sent in the coming days using the contact details given upon booking. Please be advised that teams in Aer Lingus are doing their best to accommodate Our teams are working to find alternative travel solutions for customers whose flights are cancelled. Please be advised that as we are in the peak summer period, there is limited availability.

Please see ‘What are my option if my flight has been cancelled?’.

If, as a result of cancellation, you incur additional accommodation, meals and refreshment costs or additional costs in respect of transport between the airport and your place of accommodation, please keep clearly itemised receipts.

Expenses will be reimbursed provided they are necessary, reasonable, and appropriate in relation to the length of your wait. Please note alcohol is not reimbursable. Aer Lingus considers 3-star accommodation to be reasonable.

You can submit claims for reimbursement of such expenses or review here .

Please see information on your rights under EU Regulation 261/2004 .

The best place to get information relating to your flight cancellation is through our website. Please see above for a full list of cancelled flights.

If your booking was made with a travel agent or through another airline, you will have to contact them to manage your booking.

Yes, your unaffected flight ticket will remain valid. However, you can choose to rebook the unaffected flight or cancel and get a refund / refund voucher for the unaffected flight as well as for the flight which is cancelled.

I booked via a travel agent or another third party

If your booking was made with a travel agent or another airline, you will need to contact them to manage your booking. Please note that if you made your booking with a travel agent or another airline, you may not apply for a refund voucher but can apply for a cash refund.

My booking includes a flight operated by another airline (other than Aer Lingus Regional operated by Emerald Airlines)

My booking was made using avios or aerclub rewards.

Where Avios was used to purchase all or part of your flight/s, those Avios will be reinstated to your account. It is not possible to apply for a refund voucher in this instance. Any cash element of your payment will be refunded to the original form of payment, including fare, taxes, charges and any seats or bags originally purchased. It will not include any payments made to a third party such as for car hire.

For Aer Credit Card bookings, please contact [email protected] and for Chase Companion reward fares please email [email protected] a to reinstate or reschedule this benefit. Aer Credit Card and Chase Companion fares are not eligible for vouchers.

My booking was a group booking

If your group reservation was made on the Aer Lingus website, please contact us to discuss your options.

If your group booking was arranged through a third-party, please contact the group travel agent/operator to discuss your options. Please be advised that Aer Lingus will not be able to assist with queries relating to bookings made with a travel agent or another airline.

Please be advised that Aer Lingus is doing its best to accommodate customers whose flights have been cancelled. However, as we are in peak summer, there is limited capacity. It may be a requirement to split the group across multiple flights.

Can I claim for loss of pre-booked costs?

Please contact your travel insurer to seek a refund in accordance with the terms of your travel insurance policy.

Please contact your travel insurer to see if such losses are recoverable under the terms of your travel insurance policy.

In relation to flights subject to the Canada Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), please see here .

Expect a record-breaking number of travelers on Fourth of July week: How to avoid traffic

• An estimated 70.9 million people will travel for the Fourth of July holiday, a record-breaking number.
• The most popular domestic destinations are Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, Honolulu and Miami.
• The worst times to drive for 4th of July week are July 3 and 4 between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

If you’re one of the projected record-breaking 70.9 million travelers going on a Fourth of July trip, get ready to pack some patience. 

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a statement. “We anticipate this July 4 week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Whether you’re going by airplane or car, traveler numbers are hitting historic highs. An estimated 5.74 million people will fly to their Independence Day destination, a 7% increase from 2023. (We can thank domestic airfare being slightly cheaper this year for that.)

This year, 2.8 million more people will travel by car than last year, for a total of 60.6 million travelers. According to AAA partner and rental car company Hertz, cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, Denver, and San Francisco are showing the highest rental car demand. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Fourth of July travel. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Planning your summer trip? Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

What are the most popular destinations for Fourth of July week?

Many travelers are headed to the coast for their Independence Day trip, with states like Hawaii and Florida topping the list. With the best time for Alaskan cruises in full swing, cities like Seattle, Vancouver and Anchorage are popular among travelers. As expected, beloved European destinations like London and Rome earned spots on the list as well. 

Most popular domestic destinations:

Most popular international destinations:

What are the best times to drive for Fourth of July week?

As is typical with holiday travel, the early bird will catch the worm, which means encountering the least traffic. Drivers should depart on their Independence Day road trips before noon on July 3 and 4. To return home, drivers should leave before 11 a.m. on July 7 and after 7 p.m. on July 8. 

What are the worst times to drive for Fourth of July week?

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in a statement. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.”

On July 3 and 4, drivers should avoid being on the road between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., when traffic will be most congested. On Friday, July 5, the worst traffic will be between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

On Saturday, July 5, the worst traffic for travelers returning home will be between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The worst traffic is anticipated to be on July 7, so drivers should avoid the road between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

“Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions,” Pishue said.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

• Worst route: Birmingham to Atlanta via I-20 E
• Worst day: July 7
• Worst time: 6:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 36 minutes
• 42% increased travel time
• Worst route: Boston to Hyannis via Pilgrim Hwy S
• Worst day: July 4
• Worst time: 1:45 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 51 minutes
• 31% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 S
• Worst day: July 8
• Worst time: 2:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 37 minutes
• 56% increased travel time
• Worst route: San Antonio to Houston via I-10 E
• Worst day: July 6
• Worst time: 1:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 48 minutes
• 41% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: Bakersfield to Los Angeles via I-5 S
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 47 minutes
• 29% increased travel time
• Worst route: Jersey Shore to New York via Garden State Pkwy N
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
• 40% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route: San Francisco to Monterey via Santa Cruz Hwy S
• Worst day: July 2
• Worst time: 5:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 31 minutes
• 19% increased travel time
• Worst route: Ellensburg to Seattle via I-90 E
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 19 minutes
• 35% increased travel time

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Baltimore to Washington D.C. via Balt/Wash Pkwy S
• Worst time: 3:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hours, 1 minute
• 67% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 71 Million People Expected to Travel over July 4th Week

This year’s extended independence day forecast exceeds pre-pandemic numbers, sets new record.

WASHINGTON, DC (June 20, 2024) – AAA projects 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday travel period*. For the first time, AAA looked at the entire July 4 th week, plus the Saturday before and the Sunday after the holiday. This year’s projected number of travelers for that time period is a 5% increase compared to 2023 and an 8% increase over 2019.

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We anticipate this July 4 th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”   

AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car over Independence Day week – that’s an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year. This year’s number also surpasses 2019 when 55.3 million people traveled by car over July 4 th week. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are the cities displaying the highest rental demand during the holiday week. The busiest pick-up days are projected to be Friday, June 28, Saturday, June 29, and Wednesday, July 3.   

Gas prices are lower than last year when the national average was $3.53. Pump prices will likely continue going down leading up to Independence Day.  At that point, they will likely level off and remain relatively stable until after Labor Day, similar to last year.  An important caveat is hurricane season – underway now – which could affect gas prices should a storm negatively impact Gulf Coast oil production and refining centers.  

The number of air travelers is also expected to set a new record. AAA projects 5.74 million people will fly to their July 4 th destinations. That’s an increase of nearly 7% compared to last year and a 12% increase over 2019. AAA booking data shows domestic airfare is 2% cheaper this Independence Day week compared to last year, and the average price for a domestic roundtrip ticket is $800. Airports will be packed throughout the week. AAA recommends arriving 2 hours early, reserving parking ahead of time, and traveling with carry-on luggage versus checked bags to save time and money.   

More than 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. This category is seeing an increase of 9% compared to last year, but this year’s number is shy of 2019’s figure of 4.79 million. Cruising continues its remarkable post-pandemic comeback. This time of year, Alaska cruises are in high demand, making Seattle and Anchorage top domestic destinations. Cruise travelers are also finding deals this summer. With new ships coming onto the market – and going for a premium – some cruise lines have been offering targeted discounts to fill older inventory for remaining cabins.  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says the worst times to travel by car before and on July 4 th are between 2pm and 7pm. Drivers should hit the road in the morning, and travelers returning on Monday, July 8 th should avoid rush hour traffic in the morning and afternoon.  

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3 rd , as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “R oad trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.”  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.  

Source: INRIX  

  Top Destinations 

This July 4 th week, travelers are cooling off in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska – and by the ocean! Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage are top destinations because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Beaches in South Florida, Honolulu, Punta Cana, and Barcelona are in high demand. Historical sites in European cities like London, Rome, Dublin, Paris, and Athens are also popular. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Family Road Trip Checklist    

With road trips expected to set a new record this July 4 th week, AAA teamed up with Chicco to share safety tips for families with young children.  

• Check car seat fit. Before you hit the road, check your child’s weight and height to ensure they’re in the right seat and mode of use – especially when it comes to transitioning from rear to forward-facing. Children should remain rear-facing as long as possible for better protection of their head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. If you are unsure which car seat is best for your child, Chicco offers a car seat comparison guide.    
• Double check car seat installation. Even if your car seat is already installed in the car, it’s worth checking everything is safe and secure. An easy at-home way to do this is with the “inch test.” Simply grab the seat at the car seat belt path and pull side to side and front to back. If it moves more than one inch in any direction, uninstall and start over until a secure fit is achieved. For any questions, utilize the car seat manual, QR codes, or online resources like those offered by Chicco.    
• Secure loose items in the car. Take time to organize and clean up your car before hitting the road. Storage organizers that secure to the back of the driver and passenger seats are simple solutions to make sure everything has a spot, especially loose items that can become projectiles in case of a sudden stop.  
• Be prepared for the unexpected. Pack an emergency kit with first-aid supplies, water, snacks, blankets, jumper cables, and flares. Make sure your phone is fully charged – and keep a charger in the car – to call AAA or request roadside assistance digitally if your battery dies, you lock yourself out, or you need a tow.   
• Map your route. Families with young children should plan for frequent and longer stops along the way. Map out your route ahead of time with AAA TripTik and browse hotels, restaurants, and other activities along the way on AAA Trip Canvas.  
• Bring entertainment. Make sure to place toys and books within reach to keep children entertained. If your kids use tablets or other electronics, make sure the devices are fully charged and pre-downloaded before leaving home. Another fun way to get the whole family excited for the road trip is to create a family playlist of everyone’s favorite songs!   

Holiday Forecast Methodology   

Travel Forecast    

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of May 27, 2024.   

Because AAA forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors.  

*Independence Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as the nine-day period from Saturday, June 29 to Sunday, July 7. Historically, the Independence Day holiday period included only one weekend. This is the first year the Independence Day holiday travel period is a longer timeframe with two weekends included.  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.