Record-Breaking Thanksgiving Travel: 82 Million Americans Taking to the Roads

Thanksgiving Travel Hits New Heights: 82 Million Americans On the Move

This Thanksgiving season stands poised to break records as nearly 82 million Americans are projected to travel at least 50 miles from home between November 25 and December 1, 2025. According to AAA, this represents a significant increase of 1.6 million travelers compared to the previous year, making it the busiest holiday for travel in the United States. Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel, notes, “Thanksgiving travel numbers are always impressive because this holiday has become synonymous with heading out of town to spend time with loved ones.”

Driving Dominates: Nearly 90% of Travelers Take to the Roads

Of the projected 81.8 million travelers, a staggering 73 million are expected to travel by car, accounting for nearly 90% of all Thanksgiving travelers. With road travel continually being the preferred choice, this year will see an additional 1.3 million drivers on the road compared to last Thanksgiving. Several factors could influence these numbers further, especially recent flight cancellations that might convince some air travelers to opt for driving instead. As AAA points out, filling up the tank the night before your road trip can alleviate stress on travel day, which allows families to focus on creating lifelong memories together.

Preparing for the Road: Insights for Safe Travels

In anticipation of the busy travel, car maintenance is crucial. Before hitting the road, AAA recommends performing a few checks to ensure a safe trip. This includes inspecting your vehicle's tire pressure and battery condition. Last Thanksgiving, nearly 600,000 roadside assistance calls were made to help stranded motorists with issues such as flat tires and dead batteries. Moreover, keeping an eye on fuel levels is vital—drivers should aim to refuel before embarking on long journeys, as this can save time and minimize the chances of running out of gas.

Air Travel: A New Normal?

While car travel remains dominant, air travel is also experiencing growth this year. Approximately 6 million Americans are expected to take domestic flights over the Thanksgiving holiday, marking a 2% increase compared to 2024. AAA notes, however, that this figure may fluctuate as some travelers reevaluate their plans following recent disruptions in air travel. Buying flights for Thanksgiving Day itself is often less expensive, but rising ticket prices for return flights on peak days can deter many folks from seeking air travel when combined with rising fuel prices for those considering a hybrid travel approach.

Rail and Cruise Travel: An Upsurge in Popularity

Travelers are also exploring other modes of transportation. Train, bus, and cruise travel is expected to surge by 8.5%, bringing in nearly 2.5 million people opting for these methods. As cruising continues to rebound post-pandemic, a record number of American cruise passengers are predicted for this upcoming Thanksgiving. These options not only provide alternatives to road travel but also ensure families can enjoy adventures together without being confined to long drives.

Top Thanksgiving Destinations: Where America is Heading

As holiday travel ramps up, Florida remains the top domestic destination for many travelers, with cities like Orlando and Fort Lauderdale leading the way. For international travelers, European cities like Paris and Amsterdam are high on the list. AAA's historical booking data indicates that these destinations remain attractive options for families meeting up during the holiday season, enabling them to explore outside the traditional Thanksgiving setting.

Getting Ready: Best and Worst Times for Travel

Traveling during Thanksgiving can be chaotic. Reports from INRIX outline the best times to travel by car to avoid peak traffic congestion. The worst times for travel include late Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons when most travelers are on the roads. Planning an early morning departure can help minimize travel delays significantly, making the trip more enjoyable as families reunite for the holiday.

Stay Safe on the Roads: Combating Impaired Driving

As much excitement surrounds Thanksgiving travel, safety must remain a priority. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration emphasizes the dangers of impaired driving, particularly during this busy season, where the number of fatalities from drunk-driving crashes can surge. Having a plan—whether that entails designating a sober driver, utilizing rideshares, or choosing public transportation—is essential in ensuring everyone gets home safely. Coordinating with friends and family about transportation before the holiday can also lead to responsible choices and reduce potential accidents on the roads.

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Traveling Together

This Thanksgiving, the excitement of travel reflects our desire to connect with loved ones, creating cherished memories we carry through life. Despite the challenges posed by travel logistics, the overwhelming surge in travelers shows that the importance of family and friendship trumps all. As we prepare for Thanksgiving, remember to stay flexible, check your vehicle, and plan for the journey ahead—as the road, the airways, and all other routes will be busy this holiday. Above all, stay safe and enjoy the warmth of the season.