With a record number of holiday travelers combined with high gasoline prices, a heat dome and major sporting events at some of the top holiday destination cities, travelers, especially drivers, could be in for some challenging July Fourth trips.

AAA projects 72.2 million Americans will travel for the nation’s semi quincentennial celebration between Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, July 5. While domestic travel this year is forecast to surpass last year’s record of 71.8 million travelers, the increase is significantly smaller than recent year-over-year gains. The number driving and flying to their destinations is relatively flat compared to last year, while the “other” category is seeing the biggest gain thanks to more travelers taking a cruise.

Many of the top domestic destinations will feature major sporting events during the holiday week. This could complicate travel for those headed to Seattle (the top domestic destination), Miami (#4), New York City (#5) and Boston (#10). Holiday travelers, especially drivers, should be aware of all restrictions on public and private transportation on game days in those cities. Vancouver is the top international destination, mainly for those cruising to Alaska, and is hosting a game Thursday night of the holiday week.

Travel by Motor Vehicle: AAA projects 85 percent of travelers — 61.4 million people — will drive to their destinations, slightly above last year when 61.3 million travelers hit the road. While gas prices have fallen over the past few weeks, the average price in New York City is $4.02 per gallon. This compares to $2.98 per gallon on February 27th, the day before the conflict with Iran began. Long Island averages $3.94 for a gallon of unleaded regular. The average was $2.86 the day prior to the war. Connecticut averages $3.95 today and New Jersey $3.86. The prewar averages were $2.91 per gallon for both states. Today’s national average is $3.86. The day before the war, $2.98.

By Other Modes: Travel by other modes is seeing the biggest year-over-year growth. AAA projects 4.93 million Americans will take buses, trains and especially cruises over Independence Day week, a 5.3 percent increase from last year. Travelers are drawn to cruise vacations because they know how much the trip will cost upfront thanks to all-inclusive dining, various entertainment options and multiple destinations in one package.

AAA members are heading to major U.S. cities and flying internationally to Canada and Europe during the holiday period. July Fourth fireworks and festivities in New York and Boston draw big crowds, and peak Alaskan cruise season brings travelers to Seattle, Anchorage, Fairbanks and Vancouver.