AAA forecasts that over 81.8 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home during the Thanksgiving holiday. This period extends from November 25 to December 1, 2025. The projection marks an increase of 1.6 million travelers compared to last year, setting a new record for Thanksgiving travel.
Thanksgiving Travel: Key Insights
Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday for travel in the United States, surpassing holidays like Memorial Day and July 4th. Travelers are eager to spend time with family and friends, often adapting their plans to ensure memorable experiences.
Travel by Car Dominates Thanksgiving
- Approximately 73 million people are expected to travel by car, making up nearly 90% of all Thanksgiving travelers.
- This number reflects an increase of 1.3 million people compared to the previous Thanksgiving.
- Travelers are advised to fill their gas tanks the night before and check their vehicle’s battery and tire pressure.
AAA predicts that Wednesday will see the highest demand for car rentals, particularly in markets such as Orlando, Atlanta, and Las Vegas. Meanwhile, the average cost of domestic car rentals is 15% lower than last year, with gas prices remaining stable at $3.06 per gallon.
Air Travel Increase
Approximately 6 million travelers are scheduled to take domestic flights during the holiday. This represents a 2% increase compared to 2024. However, this number could fluctuate due to recent flight cancellations impacting travel plans.
The average roundtrip flight price this year is around $700, nearly the same as last year. Travelers can often find lower prices if they fly on Thanksgiving Day itself.
Other Modes of Transportation
Travel by bus, train, and cruise is expected to rise by 8.5%, attracting nearly 2.5 million additional travelers. The cruise industry continues to thrive post-pandemic, with AAA expecting 20.7 million Americans to take cruises this year.
Top Destinations for Thanksgiving Travelers
Domestic and International Favorites
Based on AAA booking data, the top domestic and international destinations for Thanksgiving travelers include:
| Domestic | International |
|---|---|
| Orlando, FL | Paris, France |
| Fort Lauderdale, FL | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Miami, FL | Vienna, Austria |
| Anaheim/Los Angeles, CA | Cancun, Mexico |
| San Francisco, CA | Barcelona, Spain |
Driving During Thanksgiving
INRIX predicts heavy traffic on the roads, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon leading up to Thanksgiving Day. Travelers should expect delays, particularly on Sunday as they return home.
Best and Worst Times to Drive
| Date | Worst Travel Time | Best Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, Nov 25 | 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Before 12:00 PM |
| Wednesday, Nov 26 | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Before 11:00 AM |
| Thursday, Nov 27 | Minimal Traffic Impact Expected | N/A |
As the holiday approaches, travelers are encouraged to exercise caution and plan accordingly. Having a designated driver or utilizing rideshare options can greatly enhance safety on the roads.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving promises to be a bustling travel period, with millions set to embark on journeys to celebrate the holiday. Whether by car, plane, or other means, preparation and safety remain essential for all travelers.
