News Releases

VOORHEES, N.J. (December 18, 2025) -- ‘Tis the season of giving and reflection. In 2025, the AAA South Jersey Gives Back program enjoyed its most successful, far-reaching, and diverse year yet in helping our neighbors in need.

• In 2025, the AAA South Jersey Gives Back program provided more than $72,000 in charitable donations, sponsorships and scholarships.
  • Donated to 18 different partners
• 17,498 meals donated to the Food Bank of South Jersey
• Approximately 6,625 books donated to BookSmiles
• $3,000, hundreds of material goods donated to victims of Millville fire
• $6,000 in scholarships awarded to high school and college students
• 15 “scholarships” to Animal Welfare Association’s summer camp for underprivileged children to attend free of charge
• 76 birthday and superhero boxes assembled, decorated, and donated to Philadelphia children in foster care through Foster Love
• 118 volunteer hours by AAA South Jersey employees
  • 46% participation rate
    • 21% above national average, according to Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose.
• 80 years of FREE AAA memberships donated to partners
• 535 trees planted for vehicle batteries replaced and recycled in April to celebrate Earth Month
• AAA-sponsored Stamp Out Hunger food drive collects 241,000 meals for Food Bank of South Jersey
• AAA’s first-ever nationwide Impact Week resulted in over 6.8 million meals and 6,400 pounds of food donated to Feeding America, and more than 10,600 volunteer hours.
• AAA South Jersey members helped save lives by contributing approximately $17,000 to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a nonprofit, publicly supported charitable research and education organization dedicated to saving lives by preventing traffic crashes and reducing injuries when crashes occur.
• More than 350 toys donated to local children through Toys for Tots
• 147 AAA School Safety Patrol items donated to disadvantaged schools
• Hundreds of school supplies donated to Urban Promise school in Camden
• Dozens of business and professional clothing items donated to Rowan University’s The Shop Pantry & Resource Center

About AAA South Jersey Gives Back
AAA was founded on the mission of helping people. Our AAA South Jersey Gives Back program takes this mission from the roadside to the heart of our communities, where we are needed most. AAA South Jersey, its associates, and members are committed to giving back year-round through donations, collection efforts, volunteering, scholarships, and more.

VOORHEES, N.J. (September 19, 2025) -- When millions of Americans are facing vehicle troubles their first call is to AAA. When the Philadelphia Flyers were faced with vehicle troubles -- is a Zamboni a vehicle? Close enough, right? -- their first call was to AAA South Jersey.

On Thursday, September 18, a AAA South Jersey tow truck helped deliver a brand new ice resurfacer to the Flyers Training Center in Voorhees, just across the street from AAA South Jersey's headquarters.

The ice resurfacer -- Zamboni is actually a brand -- arrived all the way from Paramount, California, home of the Zamboni Company, which is still run by the Zamboni family.

After a more than 2,700 mile journey across the country, the Zamboni arrived in Voorhees, New Jersey with a small problem. Resting in the back of an 18-wheeler, how do you get a 7,300-pound monster of a machine safely to the ground without dropping it? You call your neighbors at AAA.

A AAA tow technician backed the bed of the tow truck to the rear of the 18-wheeler, allowing the Zamboni driver to back up onto the tow truck. Then, the tow operator simply tilted the bed down and allowed the Zamboni to drive off onto the ground. Mission accomplished.

Fun fact: A Zamboni's top speed is approximately 9 miles per hour, which is the same as a running chicken.

Watch the delivery on our Instagram here.

Did you know AAA members save 10% off public skating at the Flyers Training Center? Just show your membership card.

VOORHEES, N.J. (September 24, 2025 ) -- If it feels like everyone has road rage these days, that’s because they probably do. A staggering 96% of drivers admit to engaging in aggressive driving behaviors over the past year, according to a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. From speeding and tailgating to cutting off other vehicles, aggressive driving has become a near universal experience – and it's not just frustrating, it appears to be contagious.

The study found that the more drivers are exposed to aggressive behavior on the road, the more likely they are to drive aggressively themselves. This self-fulfilling cycle of aggressive driving and road rage is fueling a culture where impatience and hostility are becoming the norm behind the wheel.

“Driving can be a stressful experience due to behaviors of others on the road and how you respond to various situations. Our study finds that experiencing various forms of aggressive driving behaviors is common for almost all motorists and many drive aggressively,” said Dr. David Yang, president and executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. “This work also concludes that road etiquette and manners can be a protective factor against aggressive driving. Let’s change our driving culture so we can achieve the safe mobility vision for all road users.”

Other Key Findings:

• 92% of drivers reported aggressive behaviors that put others at risk, like speeding or cutting off other vehicles. Their top motivators were to get to their destination faster and avoid perceived danger. 

• 11% admitted to violent actions such as intentionally bumping another car or confronting another driver.

• Aggressive driving is contagious: Drivers who experienced higher levels of aggressive driving also had higher levels of engagement in aggressive driving. 

• The vehicle plays a role: The kind of car you drive could predict how you act – and how others perceive you. Drivers in sports cars, big trucks, and motorcycles are often seen as more aggressive. Some drivers say they felt more powerful and dominant behind the wheel of these vehicles. 

This latest study updates research originally conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety in 2016, offering a look at how aggressive driving behaviors have shifted over time. While some behaviors have become more common, others have declined:

Since 2016:

• Cutting off other vehicles is up 67%.

• Honking out of anger is up 47%.

• On the positive side, tailgating is down 24% and yelling at other drivers is down 17%.

AAA encourages drivers to prioritize courtesy and safety to help curb aggressive driving. In fact, the study found that encouraging good road etiquette may be the most effective way to reduce aggressive driving and road rage. Simple actions—like using turn signals, letting others merge, and offering a friendly wave—can help de-escalate tension and create a safer, more respectful driving environment for everyone.

“Having good manners behind the wheel isn’t just about being polite,” said Dr. Jose Torres, AAA traffic safety advocacy and research manager. “It’s about ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on the road.”

AAA’s Top Tips if You Encounter an Aggressive Driver:

1. Stay Calm – Don't Engage
No eye contact, no gestures, no response.

2. Give Space
Let them pass and keep your distance.

3. Protect Yourself
Call 911 or go to a public place — never drive home.

AAA’s Top 3 Tips to Control Road Rage:

1. Breathe Before You React
One deep breath can reset your drive.

2. Don’t Take the Bait
Ignore and avoid aggressive drivers.

3. Choose Time Over Tension
Leave early, give space, arrive safe.

About the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
Established in 1947 by AAA, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users.

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 delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services – all to enhance the life journey of our 64+ million members across North America, including over 57+ million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or become a member, visit AAA.com.

WASHINGTON, DC (October 20, 2025) - The booming cruise industry is expected to kick off another record year in 2026, following what is turning out to be a better-than-expected 2025. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will go on ocean cruises in 2026 and 20.7 million this year, a higher number than AAA originally projected for 2025. AAA is forecasting that the year-over-year increase will be an 8.4% jump from 2024 to 2025 and a 4.5% bounce from 2025 to 2026.

“These numbers reflect the growing demand for ocean cruises among U.S. travelers,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “Our travel agents see this every day when booking dream vacations for AAA members. Whether it’s an anniversary trip to relax in the Caribbean or a family reunion to explore Alaska, ocean cruises offer variety, convenience, and lifelong memories.”

Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How?

Who is cruising?

People of all ages go on ocean cruises, but 65% of adult U.S. passengers are 55 or older. 27% are aged 35-54 and 7% are 18-34. Regardless of age, most adults are taking a plus one on the ship! Nearly 50% of American cruise passengers are traveling as a couple, while 20% are cruising with kids (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_-S-BAi0fk). 7% are traveling solo, and the rest are going in groups.

What types of ships are they booking?

Ocean cruises come in different sizes, but as demand grows, so are the ships! Mega vessels are rising in popularity, especially in the Caribbean where most of them sail. Mega-vessels are currently deployed in three of the four top cruise regions: the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. They are not operating in Alaska. In contrast, smaller vessels hold a greater share in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, driven by the presence of expedition cruises in the former and a strong luxury segment in the latter.

When are they going?

Peak season for ocean cruises varies by region. In the Caribbean, peak season is November through March, after hurricane season and during the cold months of winter. Even though summer isn’t peak season for Caribbean cruises, fares rise because kids are off from school so demand from families goes up, but capacity is lower because there are fewer ships sailing the Caribbean during those months. Alaska cruise season is shorter, from April through October, and that tighter window translates to higher prices. Because Alaska cruises aren’t year-round, many passengers take advantage of those trips during the summer months and go on Caribbean cruises in the winter.

Where are they visiting?

The Caribbean is by far the most popular cruise destination for Americans, capturing 72% of U.S. cruise passengers. That’s why Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale, all in Florida, are the busiest cruise ports in the world. 7% of U.S. passengers are expected take Alaska cruises next year, and 5% are projected to cruise in the Mediterranean (https://www.aaa.com/tripcanvas/article/your-guide-for-the-best-mediterranean-cruises-CM951). The Caribbean’s popularity is also bolstered by the increase in shorter-length cruises - which passengers like because they’re convenient and cruise lines like because they can schedule more itineraries and sell more cabins.

Why do they love it?

AAA travel agents hear from members every day who are ready to book their first, second, or tenth cruise! In fact, 90% of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experiences as very good or good, and 91% of them have taken multiple cruises. That means most people just have to try cruising once to get hooked! Cruising appeals to couples because the ship offers “date night” opportunities all day long! Intergenerational families enjoy the variety of activities and amenities, and many say cruise vacations are more economical than booking flights and hotel rooms, especially if they want to visit multiple countries. To appeal to younger people and more adventurous travelers, many cruise lines are offering expedition cruises from the Arctic to Antarctica.

How can I book?

Booking with a travel agent is the best way to know your options and get the most value. Having an advocate back home is also helpful if there are any issues during your trip. AAA Trip Canvas (https://www.aaa.com/tripcanvas/category/cruises) allows you to browse cruise lines and destinations to get inspired and then take advantage of exclusive AAA member benefits.

Cruise Forecast Methodology
In cooperation with AAA, Tourism Economics prepared the 2026 cruise forecast based on scheduled cruise itineraries covering virtually all major cruise vessels, the economic outlook, and travel sector trends. This forecast relies on cruise-related analytics from Cruise IP (Tourism Economics’ proprietary database for the cruise industry), economic forecasts prepared by Oxford Economics, and assumptions on the future path of the tourism industry.

In this analysis, U.S. cruise passenger volume refers to ocean cruises taken by U.S. residents. It includes cruises that depart from U.S. and international ports.

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 delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services – all to enhance the life journey of our 65+ million members across North America, including nearly 58 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or become a member, visit AAA.com.

About Tourism Economics
Tourism Economics is an Oxford Economics company with a singular objective: combine an understanding of the travel sector with proven economic tools to answer the most important questions facing our clients. More than 500 companies, associations, and destination work with Tourism Economics every year as a research partner. We bring decades of experience to every engagement to help our clients make better marketing, investment, and policy decisions. Tourism Economics operates out of regional headquarters in Philadelphia and Oxford, with offices in Belfast, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Frankfurt, and Ontario.

Oxford Economics is the world's leading independent economic advisory firm. Covering over 200 countries, 100 industrial sectors and 8,000 cities and regions, we provide insights and solutions that empower clients to make informed decisions faster in an increasingly complex and uncertain world. For more information, visit oxfordeconomics.com.

WASHINGTON (October 28, 2025) — Last year, 46 emergency responders never made it home, according to the Emergency Responder Safety Institute. They were police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and tow truck operators—struck while assisting others on the roadside. “Slow Down, Move Over” (SDMO) laws were created to prevent these tragedies, but a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) finds that confusion about the laws and inconsistent enforcement are leaving responders at continued risk.

“For more than 20 years, AAA has championed ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ laws in every state, yet we are still losing far too many roadside heroes in the line of duty," said Gene Boehm, President and CEO of AAA National. "It’s clear that awareness alone isn’t enough. Drivers need to understand what these laws require and why they matter.”

“Slow Down, Move Over laws exist to protect roadside heroes, first responders, and the stranded motorists who they serve. However, as these statistics demonstrate, drivers do not always follow the law, all too often resulting in preventable tragedies,” said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

While every state and the District of Columbia has a “Slow Down, Move Over” law, many drivers don’t fully understand what those laws require. In a forthcoming AAAFTS national survey, two-thirds of drivers said they’ve heard of SDMO laws, but many couldn’t say whether their state has one or what the law entails. Drivers are far less likely to move over or slow down for tow trucks or stranded vehicles than for police, revealing a widespread misconception about who the laws protect.

When researchers reviewed real-world footage of drivers passing roadside incidents, they found only 64% of vehicles either slowed down or moved over. The remaining 36% did neither. Changing lanes was far more common than reducing speed, suggesting that many drivers are missing half the law’s intent.

The research reveals several troubling trends:

• Tow truck operators face the greatest risk. Only 58% of drivers witnessed in surveillance footage slowed down or moved over when a tow truck was stopped at the roadside, compared to 66% who slowed down or moved over for police vehicles.
• Intentions don’t match actions. Most drivers say they comply with SDMO laws, but roadside video shows otherwise—especially when it comes to reducing speed.
• Weak enforcement reduces deterrence. Drivers perceive little risk of being ticketed, and penalties vary widely—from $30 in Florida to $2,500 in Virginia.

“Every responder working on the roadside deserves to make it home safely,” said AAA Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy and Research Jake Nelson. “We need clear, consistent laws, visible enforcement, and education that resonates with drivers. When everyone understands what ‘slow down, move over’ really means, we can make our roads safer for those who protect us every day.”

AAA is encouraging policymakers, enforcement agencies, and safety partners to strengthen and align their approaches to “Slow Down, Move Over” laws—making them clearer, more consistent, and easier for drivers to follow.

Recommendations include:

• Clarify and align SDMO laws across states, including a consistent definition of what it means to “slow down.”
• Raise public awareness through emotionally compelling, visually clear campaigns that humanize the impact of noncompliance and showcase all vehicles covered by the laws.
• Increase enforcement visibility with coordinated, high-visibility efforts and education-first use of emerging technologies like dashcams and automated enforcement systems.

AAA furthers its mission to protect service technicians and tow providers by offering innovative solutions that improve safety at the roadside by partnering with companies like HAAS Alert (https://newsroom.aaa.com/2023/02/haas-alert-joins-the-aaa-automotive-preferred-supplier-program/), to provide advance notice to drivers about an incident at the roadside and remind them to slow down and move over.

About the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
Established in 1947 by AAA, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users.

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 delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services – all to enhance the life journey of our 65+ million members across North America, including over 58+ million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or become a member, visit AAA.com.

VOORHEES, N.J. (November 26, 2025) -- The AAA South Jersey community came together this Thanksgiving to donate well over 11,000 meals to the Food Bank of South Jersey in a critical time of need. All November long, the three AAA South Jersey locations collected food and hygiene items, and AAA South Jersey employees contributed monetary donations.

With Thanksgiving nearing and the prolonged government shutdown threatening SNAP benefits, AAA South Jersey offered a 3x company match on all associate donations for the first time ever. Every dollar donated to the Food Bank of South Jersey provides two meals to neighbors in need. With the 3x company match, each dollar donated by a AAASJ associate provided 6 meals to our friends in need of food assistance.

Donations from AAA South Jersey associates accounted for 3,756 meals. With the company match, the total donated to the Food Bank of South Jersey surged to $5,619 -- or 11, 238 meals.

Additionally, AAA South Jersey associates and members donated more than 500 pounds of food and hygiene items, and more than 400 reusable bags to the Food Bank of South Jersey.

In 2024, the need for food assistance reached record highs in our area – even greater than during the COVID-19 pandemic. In South Jersey, 1 in 9 individuals and 1 in 7 children face food insecurity. Last year, the Food Bank of South Jersey distributed 23 million pounds of food.

That need surged even higher during the recent government shutdown and the suspension in SNAP benefits.

"Many of us are fortunate enough that we don't have to worry about how we will afford Thanksgiving dinner. It's something that is easily taken for granted. Fortunately, the Food Bank of South Jersey is always there to help families in need. AAA South Jersey is truly proud to help them in any way we can," spokesperson Matthew Bowker said.

If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance, click here to find resources near you. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 15, 2025) — Today, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) released a new report that shows that while risky driving behaviors remain widespread, Americans strongly support a range of impaired-driving countermeasures that could significantly reduce fatalities.

Risky driving behaviors like distracted driving, speeding, or driving while impaired contribute to tens of thousands of traffic deaths each year. Federal officials estimate that more than 39,000 people were killed in U.S. traffic crashes in 2024, a slight decrease from the previous year but still a stark reminder of the persistent public health crisis on American roads.

“Findings from the AAA Foundation survey give us a strong sense of what drivers see as risky, and what they want done about it,” said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAAFTS. “Those insights can help safety stakeholders and policymakers focus on effective solutions with broad public support.”

The annual Traffic Safety Culture Index examines driver attitudes, self-reported behaviors, and support for evidence-based traffic safety policies. This year’s results highlight a clear pattern: even as some drivers continue to take dangerous risks, most Americans want stronger safeguards that prevent impaired driving, including advanced vehicle technologies and more protective legal standards.

• 67% support requiring all new cars to include alcohol-impairment prevention technology.
• 51% support lowering the legal BAC limit from 0.08 to 0.05.

Still, the survey found a troubling number of drivers still choose to drive impaired. ·

• 93% say driving after drinking is very or extremely dangerous, yet 7% say they did so in the past 30 days.
• 70% say driving within an hour of using marijuana is very or extremely dangerous — and 6% reported doing so.

“These findings show that the public is ready for stronger action,” said Gene Boehm, President and CEO of AAA, Inc. “People overwhelmingly want policies and technologies that prevent impaired driving, and those tools already exist. Implementing policies like the HALT Drunk Driving Law, alongside fair and effective enforcement, could save thousands of lives each year.”

December is Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and AAA is teaming up with MADD and Waymo to remind drivers to always plan a sober ride home whenever they go out to celebrate.

The survey also found risky behavior persists in other areas:

Distracted Driving

• 97% say scrolling social media, 94% texting/emailing, and 90% reading on a hand-held phone are extremely or very dangerous — yet 28% texted, 37% read messages, and 36% talked on a hand-held phone while driving.
• 79% support a hand-held phone ban; only 40% support limits on hands-free use.

Aggressive Driving and Speeding

• 90% view aggressive driving and 80% running red lights as extremely or very dangerous.
• Fewer drivers saw speeding as dangerous compared to other risky behaviors.
• 58% believe they’d be caught driving 15 mph over the limit, yet about half did so in the past month.
• Only 46% support speed cameras on residential streets.

For more information on survey methodology, data considerations, and results, please refer to the full Traffic Safety Culture Index report.

About The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

Established in 1947 by AAA, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users.

About AAA

Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 65 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com.

VOORHEES, N.J. (September 8, 2025) – Football is back! And to celebrate, AAA South Jersey has donated $590 – in honor of the Birds’ Super Bowl 59 victory – to the Eagles Autism Foundation.

On Thursday, September 4, AAA South Jersey associates donned their Kelly and midnight greens -- one New York Giants fan didn't get the message -- to celebrate the return of the NFL season.

For each associate who wore team colors, the AAA South Jersey Gives Back program committed to donating $5.90 to the Eagles Autism Foundation. An additional donation from the club brought the total to $590.

“Our associates love to cheer for the Birds on the field, but the organization’s work off the field is equally inspiring. While we have always had several team days throughout the year where employees can support their favorite teams, this was the first time we tied it to a charitable initiative -- and it certainly won't be the last. The AAA South Jersey Gives Back program is happy to support the Eagles Autism Foundation now and in the future,” AAA South Jersey spokesperson Matthew Bowker said.

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 over 63 million members across North America, including 56 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.

VOORHEES, N.J. (July 2, 2025) -- This spring, AAA South Jersey partnered with the Food Bank of South Jersey to combat hunger in our community. The months-long campaign resulted in more than 241,000 meals for our neighbors.

The donation comes at a significant tipping point for food banks and those facing food insecurity across the country. Programs like SNAP and Medicaid, which help thousands of South Jersey families. are facing federal funding cuts.

“These cuts add to the federal program cancellations that have already caused us to lose hundreds of thousands of pounds of food. Together these losses deepen hunger and hardship across our region,” the Food Bank of South Jersey said in an email last week.

In early May, AAA South Jersey sponsored for the third consecutive year the National Association of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger food drive. More than 250,000 AAA-branded bags were distributed throughout the South Jersey area. Residents filled the bags with nonperishable food items, that the postal workers then delivered to the Food Bank of South Jersey.

This year, Stamp Out Hunger resulted in over 277,000 pounds of food – nearly 231,000 meals – being donated to the Food Bank of South Jersey.

In June, AAA launched a grassroots giving campaign spanning local communities across America. The nationwide effort aimed to provide at least 3.5 million meals to people in need at a time when food insecurity has reached its highest point in over a decade.

AAA South Jersey collected monetary donations from associates and members, resulting in another 10,000 meals being donated to Feeding America. To cap off the Week of Impact, a team of 10 AAA South Jersey associates spent a morning sorting and packing food donations at the Food Bank of South Jersey.

In every community in America, people are working hard to provide for themselves and their families. Yet, in 2023, 47 million people — approximately 1 in 7 — experienced food insecurity in the United States. The increased cost of living, coupled with increasingly limited access to food, is creating a national hunger crisis.

AAA selected the week of June 23 to June 27 to focus on donation and volunteer efforts, as this is when many children are out of school and often experience food insecurity. In 2023 alone, 13.8 million children did not have the food they needed to thrive. In South Jersey, 1 in 7 children struggles with hunger.

"With schools out for the summer, we know this is a tough time for families in need. Parents worried about providing for their children can rest assured thanks to the hard work of the Food Bank of South Jersey. With so much uncertainty around federal funding, AAA South Jersey and the entire South Jersey community is ready to step up and beat hunger,” AAA spokesperson Matthew Bowker said.

Every $1 raised can help provide at least 10 meals to our neighbors, according to Feeding America. Donate here.

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 over 63 million members across North America, including 56 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.

VOORHEES, N.J. (June 24, 2025) - AAA projects 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home over the Independence Day holiday period from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6. This year’s domestic travel forecast is an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year and 7 million more than in 2019. AAA’s Independence Day forecast includes two weekends instead of one to better reflect the flow of holiday travelers.

“Summertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, and July 4^th is one of the most popular times to get away,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “Following Memorial Day’s record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week. With the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends.”

Independence Day Travelers by Mode of Transportation

By Car: AAA projects 61.6 million people will travel by car, a 2.2% increase over last year, and the highest volume on record. This Independence Day holiday period is expected to see an additional 1.3 million road travelers compared to 2024. AAA recommends getting routine vehicle maintenance ahead of your trip and packing an emergency kit. Last July 4^th week, AAA responded to nearly 700,000 emergency roadside assistance calls for issues like dead batteries and flat tires, plus people locking themselves out of their car or running out of gas.

Drivers are seeing some increases at the pump, but summer gas prices are still the lowest they’ve been since 2021. This year, the price of crude oil has kept gas prices on the lower side. The Israel Iran conflict has driven up the price of oil in recent days but not dramatically. Escalation and duration of the conflict are two factors to watch. Weather is also a wild card. The Atlantic hurricane season is underway, and NOAA predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season. Storms along the Gulf Coast can affect oil refineries and disrupt fuel deliveries, leading to a temporary increase in gas prices.

For travelers who are renting cars, AAA car rental partner Hertz says Thursday, July 3^rd is expected to be the busiest day to pick up vehicles. Some of the top destinations based on advanced bookings are also on AAA’s list of most popular places to visit over July 4^th: Orlando, Denver, Boston, Oahu, and Seattle. Hertz says most drivers are looking to rent SUVs and midsize sedans.

AAA Trip Canvas Inspiration: Pack up the car and take a road trip to one of the 10 Best National Parks to Visit in the Summer.

By Air: The number of people traveling by air is also projected to set a new record. AAA expects 5.84 million travelers will fly to their destinations; that’s 8% of all Independence Day travelers. This year’s projection is a 1.4% increase over the previous record set last Independence Day week of 5.76 million air travelers.

According to AAA data, which is based on what travelers paid when they booked their July 4^th trips, a roundtrip domestic flight is averaging $810, 4% more expensive than last year. When booking last-minute flights for summer trips, consider flying on weekdays like Tuesdays or Wednesdays for the best deals.

AAA Trip Canvas Inspiration: Still debating where to take the kids this summer? Check out 17 Best Vacation Spots for Families.

By Other Modes: Travel by other modes is expected to grow by 7.4% over last year. AAA projects 4.78 million people will travel by bus, train, or cruise. This year’s number is just shy of the 2019 record of 4.79 million. Cruising is driving the popularity of this category, particularly this time of year, when Alaska cruise season is in full swing.

AAA Trip Canvas Inspiration: Missed the boat this summer? Start planning now for your Alaska cruise next year! Here are the 9 Best Alaska Cruises for Every Traveler.

In New Jersey, just over 2 million people are projected to travel during the 2025 period - a 2% increase over 2024. The majority will travel by vehicle -- over 1.66 million people -- while 187,440 are estimated to travel by air.

In the Philadelphia-metro area, expect to see significant delays to many popular summer destinations, like Atlantic City, Hershey, the Poconos, and more.

AAA’s Top Independence Day Destinations

The top holiday destinations listed below are based on AAA booking data for the Independence Day travel period. Cruises, beaches, and fireworks are the main motivators for travelers heading to these cities. Alaska cruises are in peak season, Florida and Hawaii are in high demand for their resorts and attractions, and New York and Boston host two of the most popular fireworks shows in the nation. Internationally, Vancouver tops the list followed by Europe’s most in-demand cities during the summer.

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro

INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, expects Wednesday, July 2 and Sunday, July 6 to be the busiest days on the road. Afternoon hours will be the most congested. Drivers should hit the road in the morning to avoid the worst traffic, but keep in mind construction, crashes, or severe weather could impact travel times. Watch for stopped vehicles and Slow Down, Move Over for emergency responders.

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

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 MMGY’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM. The PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. MMGY 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, forecast U.S. travel behavior and position brand, 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 19, 2025.

Because AAA holiday 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, whether traveling for work or leisure. 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
The Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as the nine-day period from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6. Historically, this holiday period included only one weekend. The expanded travel window was instituted starting in 2024 with historical results calculated back to 2019 using the new nine-day period.

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 delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services – all to enhance the life journey of our 65+ million members across North America, including nearly 58 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or 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 MMGY
MMGY Global is the world’s leading integrated marketing firm specializing in the travel, hospitality, and lifestyle industries. With operating brands around the world, the award-winning organization maintains a global communications practice in all marketing channels, serving many of the world’s premier travel and tourism brands. As a company dedicated to the travel industry, MMGY Global strives to create a connected, inclusive, and peaceful world by promoting travel as a cultural bridge of understanding. For more information, visit www.mmgyglobal.com.

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.