Fourth of July travel: 72 million people on the move
Jun 30, 2026, 11:18 AM | Updated: Jul 1, 2026, 9:59 am
Pack your patience. And maybe some cooling powder.
If you’re hitting the road — or the airport — this Fourth of July weekend, congratulations. You and approximately 72 million of your closest strangers had the same idea. AAA is reporting record-breaking Independence Day travel numbers this year, so buckle up, Colorado.
But here’s where it gets…interesting.
The Daily Mirror is reporting that summer travelers are once again getting repeatedly pulled aside for pat-downs at U.S. airports — because the heat is causing body scanners to flag their, um, crotch region as suspicious.
Yes. You read that correctly.
Apparently, when it’s hot, certain body parts run warm, and airport scanners are basically out here treating your overheated nether regions like a national security threat.
So, to recap your Fourth of July airport experience: long lines, overpriced terminal food and a possible surprise pat-down because your body decided to sweat like a normal human being in summer.
A few tips before you fly out of DIA this weekend:
- Leave extra time — seriously, extra extra time
- Stay hydrated
- Maybe wear breathable fabric
- Don’t make eye contact with TSA when they pull you aside
Travel safe, Denver. You’ve earned this holiday.
