Start Packing: Independence Day Travel A Whopping 10% Lower Than Last Year! Mary Zakheim June 21, 2016 Atlanta, Beach Vacations, Budget Travel, Chicago, Orlando, South America Thanks to airline competition, lower fuel prices and airline capacity growth, we enter the summer of 2016 with lower airfares than we’ve seen in awhile – score! It’s only right to start celebrating these lower prices along with our independence this Fourth of July. With destinations near and far seeing much lower airfare pricing – an average of 10% lower! – here are the top spots that you should jet off to this holiday weekend if you’re looking to save on fares but splurge on fun! Destinations In The U.S. Chicago: Largest price decrease Songquan Deng / Shutterstock The Windy City saw a 19% price decrease from last year to this year on bookings for the Fourth of July holiday! If you’re one of the lucky folks headed to Chicago for the Fourth, you’re in for a treat – the city has a huge bash at Navy Pier, complete with fireworks, boat cruises and excellent dining options on the water. The city promises that this year’s celebrations will be bigger and better than last year’s – a perfect cherry on top of your lower fares that you paid to fly to the city! Atlanta: Lowest total price Rob Hainer / Shutterstock Atlanta is the city that averaged the lowest total price for passengers flying into this Georgian capital with the average airfare coming in at $271 for a round trip ticket. To top it off, Atlanta is an electric and lively city whose extravagant Fourth of July celebrations make this place a perfect landing spot. With multiple locations across the city hosting fireworks displays, visitors can take their pick of where they’d like to ring in Independence Day – whether it’s in Atlanta’s Olympic Park, at one of the city’s premiere shopping centers or even the summertime carnival, you’re sure to have a blast! Orlando: Most popular destination Robert Hoetink / Shutterstock The most popular destination for folks to fly to for Fourth of July celebrations is Orlando – and for good reason! As the theme park capital of the world, the city’s parks are ready to light up visitor’s nights with spectacular fireworks shows, events and parades. Whether you’re visiting LEGOLAND, DisneyWorld, Universal Studios or SeaWorld, you will be treated to a star-spangled performance. For those visiting Orlando and skipping the parks, there are plenty of things to do around town – from a 5k race to a huge concert in a public park, it’s no wonder Orlando is the top spot for those traveling for Independence Day! International Destinations Belize: Largest price decrease milosk50 / Shutterstock As far as international destinations go, Belize saw the biggest price decrease – a whopping 38% since last year! For the adventurous traveler, Belize is the perfect escape. With activities like snorkeling, kayaking and hiking, this Central American country is the perfect place for trekkers that would rather spend their Fourth of July climbing a mountain than lounging on a crowded field. Though small, the country packs a punch with unbelievably blue waters, verdant forests and breathtaking adventures afoot. Mexico City: Lowest total price Sergey Novikov / Shutterstock A round trip ticket to Mexico City clocks in as the lowest total price of international destinations on the Independence Day weekend. For a cool $396, you and your crew can spend your Fourth of July weekend in Mexico City – the capital city of Mexico that simply oozes with history, culture and laid-back sophistication. Though it used to get a bad rap, the city is cleaning up its act: there has been a renaissance of its culinary scene, cultural activities and a casual, but decidedly cosmopolitan, feel. Cancun: Most popular destination Aleksandar Todorovic / Shutterstock The most popular travel destination for those flocking out of the country on the Fourth of July weekend, airfare to Cancun only rose 1% from last year to this year – a nominal distinction of $6. It’s not hard to see why: with its all-inclusive resorts, endless party atmosphere and glitzy hotel scene, the place sounds straight out of a Hollywood film. For those who prefer a casual local culture, the city has another side to it filled with salsa clubs, small taco stands and undeveloped beaches. Just a day trip away lay national parks and pristine beaches – if you need an escape from the raucous party scene. If not, enjoy your endless cervezas and poolside lounging! Inspired yet? Take advantage of these huge savings and start planning your summer vacation today — tell us where you want to go in the comments below!