Nearly 72 million Americans are expected to travel over the Fourth of July holiday, according to AAA, with most choosing to hit the road despite high gas prices. AAA estimates about 5.85 million people will fly within the United States, about the same as last year. More than 61 million are expect ed to drive to their destinations, also roughly unchanged from last year. Nearly 5 million people are expected to travel by bus, train or cruise ship, making it the only mode of transportation expected to see an increase compared with last year. Gas prices remain at a four-year high, with California drivers paying even more than the national average. But AAA said higher fuel costs are not keeping many people from taking holiday trips. “What we’ve seen is that gas prices do deter people from traveling. If somebody wants to go on a trip, you’re going to go regardless,” AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said. AAA also released its recommended travel times for the holiday weekend. Drivers heading out Thursday should avoid the roads between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. On Friday, the best time to leave is before 11 a.m. On the Fourth of July, AAA recommends traveling after 3 p.m. to avoid the heaviest traffic. Travelers returning home Sunday should expect the busiest roads between noon and 6 p.m. At Mineta San Jose International Airport, travelers are encouraged to arrive early, check in online before heading to the airport and make sure they have a REAL ID or passport. Airport officials also recommend reserving parking in advance. ...read more read less