BALTIMORE, MD—AAA predicts a record-breaking 119.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home during the year-end holiday period from Saturday, December 21 to Wednesday, January 1. This projection narrowly exceeds the 2019 record by 64,000 travelers. AAA predicts 3 million more travelers this holiday season.

The surge in holiday travel is attributed to Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, creating extended weekend breaks before and after the holiday.

“This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel.

Nearly 90% of holiday travelers, amounting to 107 million people, are expected to travel by car. While this number represents a 2.5 million increase from last year, it remains slightly below the 2019 record of 108 million. Many travelers, especially families with young children, prefer the flexibility and affordability of road trips. This holiday season, gas prices are lower than last year’s national average of $3.12 in late 2023.

AAA anticipates air travel will also set a new record with 7.85 million passengers, surpassing the previous record of 7.5 million last year. AAA reports that flights are 4% more expensive this holiday season than last year.

Other modes of transportation, including buses, trains, and cruises, are also experiencing a resurgence, with a projected 4.47 million travelers choosing these options, marking a near 20-year high. Domestic cruise bookings, in particular, have seen a 37% increase compared to last holiday season. Cruising is popular now as families celebrate the holidays aboard a ship with activities and food.

AAA advises travelers to prioritize safety during the busy holiday period. The organization recommends drivers follow posted speed limits, drive only when alert and refreshed, and slow down and move over for roadside workers.

INRIX, a transportation data provider, predicts the weekends before Christmas Day and New Year’s Day will experience the worst traffic delays, with Sunday, December 22 expected to be the nation’s worst day to travel. Drivers in major metro areas like Boston, New York City, Seattle, and Washington DC could experience double the typical delays, and nationwide travel times could increase by up to 30%.

“Our advice is to avoid traveling during peak commuting hours during the week. If schedules allow, leave bright and early or after the evening commute,” says AAA.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Pixabay