More Americans Staying Home On July 4 As Economic Woes Continue

Washington, D.C. (AHN) - A new survey finds Americans remain concerned about their personal economic outlook and have decided to stay home instead of travel for the 4th of July. AAA Auto Club South reports family travel plans have fallen by 1.9% overall, with a 2.6% drop in planned car trips for Independence Day.

While unemployment and credit are still problems for many Americans, 54 consecutive days of gasoline price increases also play a part in why more Americans are avoiding a road trip.

Nonetheless, 37.1 million Americans are expected to take a trip for the nation's birthday and passengers on airlines are expected to jump 4.9% as carriers offer holiday deals to spur travelers. AAA reports airfares for the holiday week are down 16% from last year.

"Although the research suggests some consumer apprehension, the fact that gasoline prices appear to have peaked and may be on their way down may encourage some families to reconsider a vacation getaway starting with this holiday weekend," AAA Auto Club South Senior Vice President Kevin Bakewell said.

"We've had many visitors come to our branch offices in recent weeks coming in to plan family vacations, cruises and tours so perhaps there's more optimism in our territory than the national survey data reflects," Bakewell added.