As the holiday season approaches, travel forecasts indicate an unprecedented number of people will hit the roads and skies this year, setting new benchmarks compared to pre-pandemic levels. AAA has unveiled projections suggesting that from December 21 to January 1, around 119.3 million individuals will embark on journeys covering 50 miles or more from their homes. This anticipated figure represents a significant milestone—surpassing the previous record of 2019 by a slim margin of 64,000 travelers and marking an increase of 3 million compared to the prior holiday season.
Interestingly, the vast majority of holiday travelers, about 90%, will choose to travel by car. This choice highlights the continued preference for road trips, as 2023’s numbers, estimated at 107 million travelers by car, come close to 2019’s pinnacle of 108 million. Additionally, this year’s total showcases an increase of 2.5 million from last year, illustrating a trend toward larger family gatherings and more road-based adventures during the holiday period.
In a noteworthy shift, there is also a surge in air travel which is projected to reach record levels this holiday season. With 7.85 million passengers expected to take to the skies, this marks an increase from last year’s prior high of 7.5 million. However, the uptick comes amid rising fare prices, as domestic flight tickets are averaging about $830—up 4%—and international tickets are even steeper, averaging $1,630, a 13% hike from the previous year.
Further diversifying the travel landscape, AAA predicts around 4.47 million people opting for alternative means of transportation, including buses, trains, and cruises. This segment has experienced notable growth, specifically a 10% rise from last year’s figures. The cruise industry, in particular, has witnessed a remarkable 37% increase in domestic bookings, underscoring a resurgence of interest in maritime adventures among holiday travelers.
When analyzing travel patterns, it is evident that warm-weather destinations are dominating both domestic and international trends. The top domestic locations include popular spots like Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and New York City, each offering a blend of family-friendly activities and festive cheer. Internationally, travelers are gravitating toward tropical getaways such as Punta Cana and Cancun, where sun-soaked vacations provide a stark contrast to winter weather.
As Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, aptly pointed out, the holiday season is a time for creating cherished memories with loved ones, and travel plays a vital role in facilitating those experiences. With records poised to be broken and the spirit of adventure alive, this year’s holiday season promises to be a memorable one for travelers across the globe. The trends reflect not only a revival of travel enthusiasm but also a broader societal desire to reconnect and celebrate during a time traditionally filled with joy and togetherness.