SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – More than 72 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more this Independence Day weekend. That’s an over two percent increase from 2024.
In South Dakota, more than 215,000 people are expected to travel for the weekend. About 85 percent of those traveling will pack the car and drive to their destination. The total number of South Dakotans traveling represents a two percent increase from 2024.
AAA South Dakota spokesperson Shawn Steward says the growing number of travelers continues a trend started after the COVID-19 pandemic. With more and more people traveling this year, he said patience will be key.
“We expect the roads, the airports, and other forms of transportation to be busy, as are most summer holidays recently,” Steward said.
Those on the road this year will see some relief at the pump. Gas prices in South Dakota are down 20 to 30 cents compared to the Fourth of July holiday in 2024. The price of gas is currently around three dollars per gallon.
“Overall, we’re quite a bit below the national average as well. It shouldn’t put a huge dent in your wallet when you go to fill up your tank,” Steward said.
But with that many people on the road, it also means a spike in car breakdowns. AAA said it expects to assist nearly 700 South Dakotans on the road this holiday weekend.
Steward said that before people hit the road, they should check their car to make sure everything is working properly. That means checking the battery, tires, and, especially with the hot temperatures, making sure everything will stay cool.
“Also, make sure that you’re paying attention to the cooling system of your vehicle. If you notice your air conditioner not working quite as well, get it in and get it checked. You may need to change out your engine coolant. Just have it checked out from bumper to bumper before you hit the road, so you can avoid spending your holiday weekend stuck on the side of the road,” Steward said.
Steward said while people should expect to face longer lines at the airport and more traffic on the roads at all times this weekend, people should try and avoid traveling Sunday afternoon. That’s when they expect the most traffic congestion, as people travel back home.
Copyright 2025 Dakota News Now. All rights reserved.
