As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, forecasts are indicating a remarkable surge in travel among Americans this year. The American Automobile Association (AAA) anticipates that approximately 79.9 million individuals will journey at least 50 miles from their homes between November 26 and December 2, marking an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to the previous year. This uptick is partly due to AAA’s decision to broaden the definition of the Thanksgiving travel period, now encompassing the Tuesday before Thanksgiving Day and the Monday following it. This strategic expansion reflects a changing trend in travel behavior, with families eager to extend their holiday festivities.
A significant majority of travelers, estimated at 71.7 million, will opt to travel by car. This represents an increase of 1.3 million over last year’s figures, allowing for a notable focus on road trips as an integral part of the holiday experience. Encouragingly, gasoline prices are projected to drop; last year’s average of $3.26 per gallon is expected to fall below $3. This reduction could further bolster road travel, making it a more attractive option for families considering their holiday plans.
Air travel is expected to see a corresponding rise, with about 5.84 million Americans taking to the skies—up from 5.73 million in 2022. However, the cost of domestic airfare has risen by approximately 3% compared to last Thanksgiving. While travel within the United States remains steady, international flight bookings have surged, increasing by a striking 23%. Intriguingly, international travel costs have seen a 5% decline, suggesting that many are seizing the opportunity for adventures abroad, particularly during this festive season.
In addition to cars and planes, other forms of travel are witnessing a revival as well. AAA reports that 1.92 million travelers will utilize buses, cruises, or trains, reflecting a 9% increase from last year. The cruise industry, in particular, has flourished, with bookings up by 20%. This shift highlights a growing enthusiasm for cruise vacations, blending travel with leisure in appealing destinations as part of the holiday experience.
When examining domestic travel trends, Florida emerges as the prime destination. Cities such as Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale lead the list, with Tampa and New York rounding out the top five. For international travel, Budapest, Hungary, captivates travelers as the most sought-after destination, closely followed by Mexican cities and European hotspots. This array of popular locations underscores the diversity in travel preferences among Americans during the holiday.
Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, encapsulates the spirit of Thanksgiving travel: “Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday for travel, and this year we’re expecting to set new records.” As individuals and families make plans to reunite with loved ones, travel is undeniably at the forefront of the Thanksgiving tradition. Despite higher airfare and evolving trends, the allure of reconnecting during this cherished holiday proves stronger than ever.