Record-Breaking Holiday Travel: AAA Predicts 122.4 Million Americans on the Move
This holiday season, AAA predicts a record-breaking 122.4 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles from home between December 20 and January 1. This marks a 2.2% increase from last year and sets a new record for year-end holiday travel. The most popular mode of transportation remains driving, with 109.5 million people expected to hit the road, taking advantage of lower gas prices. AAA emphasizes the importance of safety on the roads, especially during National Impaired Driving Prevention Month in December.
Air travel is also on the rise, with an estimated 8.03 million travelers flying domestically during the holiday period, a 2.3% increase from last year. The average cost of round-trip domestic flights is around $900, slightly higher than last year. Train, bus, and cruise travel are also seeing an increase, with nearly 4.9 million people opting for these modes of transportation. The demand for cruises remains strong as travelers seek warm-weather getaways and stress-free ways to welcome the new year.
Popular destinations for holiday travel include warm weather locations like Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Cancun. These destinations offer a mix of family-friendly attractions, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether travelers are heading back to their hometowns or exploring new destinations, the desire to travel and create lasting memories remains a common thread during the holiday season.