As the holiday season approaches, travel forecasts indicate a remarkable resurgence in the number of individuals planning to embark on journeys, surpassing those recorded in 2019—the last year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to projections from AAA, from December 21 to January 1, approximately 119.3 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles away from their homes. This figure marks an increase of 64,000 compared to the pre-pandemic peak. In addition, it reflects a growth of 3 million travelers compared to the previous holiday season, indicating a strong recovery in consumer confidence and a renewed enthusiasm for travel amidst the backdrop of a booming economy.
Among the various modes of transportation, driving remains the most favored method, with nearly 90%—or approximately 107 million individuals—expected to hit the road this holiday season. While this figure is just shy of 2019’s record of 108 million, it represents an increase of 2.5 million from last year, highlighting a continued preference for car travel. The flexibility and convenience associated with road trips appeal strongly to families and groups, facilitating access to a wide array of warm-weather destinations.
In a notable shift, air travel is also on the rise, with AAA projecting a record-breaking 7.85 million air travelers this holiday season. This surpasses last year’s record of 7.5 million and illustrates an increasing willingness for individuals to fly despite rising ticket prices. The uptick in travel demand comes alongside a spike in airfares; domestic flights now average $830—up 4% from previous levels—while international flights have seen an even steeper rise of 13%, averaging at around $1,630. This trend highlights both an eagerness to reconnect with far-flung family and friends and a willingness to invest in travel experiences.
Aside from car and air travel, alternative modes such as bus, train, and cruise travel are expected to see a significant uptick, with 4.47 million people choosing these options—up 10% compared to last year. Particularly compelling is the remarkable 37% increase in domestic cruise bookings, which suggests that many travelers are looking for unique experiences at sea to complement their holiday plans.
Booking data reveals compelling trends among preferred travel destinations. Domestically, warm-weather locales dominate, with cities like Orlando, Miami, Las Vegas, and New York emerging as favorites. Internationally, travelers are gravitating toward tropical resorts and cultural hotspots like Punta Cana, Cancun, and even London, illustrating a diverse palate for vacation experiences. As Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, highlighted, “This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that.”
The projected increase in holiday travel is indicative of a broader trend towards normalcy and a desire to create lasting memories through shared experiences, despite the challenges posed by higher travel costs.