As Americans prepare for the annual Thanksgiving holiday, travel forecasts are predicting an exceptional surge in numbers. AAA estimates that from November 26 to December 2, approximately 79.9 million Americans will embark on journeys lasting at least 50 miles from their residences. This figure signifies a rise of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year—a noteworthy increment that reflects broader trends in holiday travel behavior.
This year marks a significant expansion in the Thanksgiving travel timeframe, with AAA having included additional travel days: the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and the Monday following it. This strategic adjustment recognizes the reality that celebrations often span beyond the traditional holiday, thus accommodating various travel schedules.
The bulk of this Thanksgiving traffic is expected to clog roadways, with around 71.7 million individuals opting for car travel. This figure has risen by 1.3 million since last year, indicating a persistent preference for the flexibility that driving offers. Encouragingly, consumers may find relief at gas stations; the previous year’s average price of gasoline was $3.26 per gallon, but predictions suggest costs could dip below $3 this year. Such reduced fuel expenses may further incentivize road travel as families seek to minimize costs amid inflationary pressures.
Flying is similarly on the rise, with an estimated 5.84 million people choosing air travel, marking an increase from the previous year’s 5.73 million. However, the growing demand for flights comes with a price, as domestic airfares have seen a 3% uptick compared to last Thanksgiving. Interestingly, international flight bookings have surged by 23%, highlighting a growing trend among travelers eager to explore foreign destinations. Notably, the cost of international travel has actually declined by 5%, making overseas holiday trips more appealing than ever.
Beyond traditional modes, an increasing number of people are utilizing buses, cruises, or trains, with this segment rising by 9%—a trend driven largely by an upswing in cruise bookings, which have surged by 20% since last year. This diversification of travel methods offers families an array of options tailored to their preferences and budgets.
Florida emerges as the preferred choice for many domestic travelers this Thanksgiving, with Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale leading the destination pack. New York and Los Angeles round out the top five, indicating a blend of traditional festive destinations and popular tourist hotspots. On the international front, Budapest is recognized as the most sought-after escape, followed closely by numerous attractive locations such as Cancun and Paris.
“This Thanksgiving is poised to be the busiest travel season on record,” remarked Stacey Barber, AAA’s vice president of travel. The upcoming increase in travel signifies more than just numbers; it encapsulates a vital desire among Americans to reconnect with family and friends, highlighting travel as an integral element of holiday celebrations. As travelers prepare to take to the skies, roads, and seas, this Thanksgiving promises to be a memorable one, characterized by joy, connection, and a spirit of adventure.