AAA is forecasting another record-setting Independence Day holiday travel period, with more than 2.4 million Georgians expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, July 5.

Most of those travelers will be on the road. AAA says more than 2.1 million Georgians are expected to drive to their holiday destinations. Another 163,982 Georgians are expected to travel by air, while more than 109,000 will travel by bus, train, cruise or other modes of transportation.

AAA says this year’s travel forecast represents a modest increase over last year, but it is still enough to set a new Fourth of July travel record in Georgia. Nationally, AAA projects 72.2 million Americans will travel during the Independence Day holiday period, with about 61.4 million expected to go by car.

Higher travel costs are not keeping families home, but AAA says many travelers are adjusting their plans. Some are taking shorter vacations, choosing destinations closer to home, comparing the cost of driving versus flying, or booking cruises and all-inclusive trips where costs are easier to plan.

Gas prices remain a concern for holiday travelers. AAA says Georgia gas prices are higher than they were at this time last year, although prices have gradually declined in recent weeks. Drivers are encouraged to check daily fuel prices before leaving and to plan for heavier demand at the pump as the holiday approaches.

AAA and INRIX say the busiest travel periods are expected during the afternoon and evening hours this week. For drivers leaving today, the worst travel time is expected between 3 PM and 6 PM, while the best time to leave is before 2 PM.

AAA is also urging drivers to make safety a priority. Motorists should check tires, batteries, oil and other basic maintenance items before leaving home. Drivers are also reminded to slow down, move over for emergency vehicles and stranded motorists, and never drive impaired during the holiday travel period.