Thanksgiving is drawing nearer, and with it, expectations for record-breaking travel numbers this year. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), approximately 79.9 million people are set to travel 50 miles or more from their homes during the Thanksgiving holiday period, which runs from Tuesday, November 26, through Monday, December 2. This marks an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to 2023 and exceeds the pre-pandemic travel levels recorded back in 2019.
Stacey Barber, the Vice President of AAA Travel, commented on the situation, stating, "Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday for travel, and this year we’re expecting to set new records across the board, from driving to flying and cruising." The forecast indicates the majority of travelers—around 71.7 million—will take to the roads, which is also more than the pre-COVID numbers when 70.6 million traveled by car for Thanksgiving.
Interestingly, fuel prices seem favorable for travelers this year. Current projections suggest the national average for gasoline could dip below $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021, creating conditions more conducive for long road trips. AAA's examination of gas price trends indicated it was approximately $3.07 per gallon as this year's Thanksgiving approached, compared to $3.26 last year.
Air travel is also anticipated to see significant volumes. AAA forecasted about 5.84 million people would fly domestically over the Thanksgiving holiday—a 2% increase from last year and nearly 11% compared to pre-pandemic levels. It's noteworthy as international flight bookings have surged by 23% from last Thanksgiving, partially due to international flight costs dropping by around 5%.
With such soaring numbers expected on the roads and at airports, travel experts have provided insights on the best and worst times to travel. Transportation analytics firm INRIX suggests the busiest days on the roads will be the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, particularly during the afternoons. Conversely, Thanksgiving Day is expected to offer relatively clear travel conditions, making it the ideal time for flexible travelers to hit the road.
Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst with INRIX, advised travelers to stay updated with traffic apps and local news alerts to navigate delays effectively. Travelers through metropolitan areas like Boston, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and Washington, D.C., may experience conditions where traffic could double compared to normal days.
For those opting for car rentals to facilitate travel, Hertz reported high demand for rentals particularly in cities like Atlanta, Las Vegas, Miami, and Orlando. Notably, rental pick-up is expected to peak one of the days before Thanksgiving, as families gather for celebrations and vacations.
AAA's projections also point to nearly 2.3 million travelers using alternative forms of transport like buses, trains, or cruises. This category saw almost 9% growth compared to last year and approximately 18% compared to 2019 due to the increased interest among consumers post-pandemic.
The common thread running through the data is reflective of families coming together during Thanksgiving—a chance for reunions often fueled by warm weather destinations. Many travelers are flocking to Florida, with cities like Orlando topping the list of popular domestic destinations. The appeal of beaches, theme parks, and cruises makes for perfect getaways during the holiday.
Apart from warmer locales, several areas across the continental United States are anticipating rain and snow as Thanksgiving approaches. Warnings from various weather agencies suggest more than 25 million people may be affected by forthcoming winter storms.
Overall, the anticipated surge of nearly 80 million travelers this Thanksgiving season highlights the desire among Americans to reconnect with friends and family, as travel trends continue to shift post-pandemic, resulting in new records across various transportation modes. With various factors affecting travel dynamics—including economic conditions, fuel prices, and weather forecasts—the upcoming holiday significantly influences the travel experience for millions.
So, as turkey preparations begin, keep travel dates and times posted for this holiday season. Planning strategically can help avoid traffic snarls and enjoy the festive spirit of Thanksgiving.
