This Thanksgiving in 2025 is poised to set a new benchmark in the United States, with an estimated 79.9 million people traveling to celebrate the holiday. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), this unprecedented number signals a record-breaking event, reflecting a 2% increase from the previous year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
The vast majority of these travelers, about 71.7 million, will hit the roads, leading to significant congestion on the nation's main highways. Meanwhile, nearly 5.8 million individuals will choose to fly, and 2.3 million will turn to alternative transport options such as buses, trains, and cruises. Notably, those opting for ocean voyages have surged by 18% compared to 2019, driven largely by the resurgence of maritime tourism.
Florida's Travel Boom and Economic Growth
Florida is also gearing up for record travel numbers, with over 4.5 million residents planning journeys exceeding 50 miles during the holiday. This marks an increase of 112,000 travelers compared to 2023, highlighting the robust economic activity in the southern state.
Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel at AAA, emphasized that the uptick in travel is fueled by factors such as economic recovery, low inflation, and rising incomes. She also noted that these favorable conditions have led to a projected 4.6% increase in consumer spending for the season compared to the previous year.
Extended Travel Period and Fuel Price Relief
The AAA has extended the official Thanksgiving travel period to seven days—from Tuesday, November 26, to Monday, December 2—rather than the usual five days. This extension accommodates the anticipated surge in travel demand.
Reports from EFE indicate that falling fuel prices will provide relief for drivers. It's expected that the national average will drop below $3 per gallon just before the start of the travel rush. Such a price point hasn't been seen since 2021 and may be encouraging millions of Americans to take to the skies, rails, seas, and roads to reunite with loved ones for Thanksgiving celebrations.
Authorities are advising travelers to meticulously plan their trips, as they may encounter long wait times at transport terminals and heavy traffic on the roads. This potential record in travel underscores Thanksgiving's enduring importance as a time for family gatherings and signals a broader social and economic recovery in the U.S.