What: Thanksgiving Travel Is Expected to Rise 13% From 2020
AAA is predicting a major year for Thanksgiving travel, forecasting that 53.4 million people will hit the road for the upcoming holiday, up 13% from 2020. This forecast brings travel volumes within 5% of the pre-pandemic levels of 2019, and represents the highest single-year increase in Thanksgiving travelers since 2005.
Why It Matters: Holiday Travel Is Rebounding This Year
This Thanksgiving travel projection joins a growing body of research suggesting that U.S. travel is continuing its comeback. But with more travelers on the road this year, advise clients prepare themselves for crowded roads and airports. It will be important for travelers to make their plans early to avoid availability limitations, and to budget extra time for airport security, traffic delays and the like.
Fast Facts:
- AAA forecasts that 48.3 million people will travel by car, while 4.2 million will reach their Thanksgiving destination by air.
- For air travelers, AAA notes that the Tuesday and Wednesday before the holiday are the most expensive and heavily traveled days.
- Daily car rental rates have increased 4% compared to last Thanksgiving, and the holidays could result in rental car shortages such as those the industry has seen in recent months.
- With the majority of Thanksgiving travelers driving to their destination, AAA notes that major metro areas could see more than double typical drive times.
- AAA booking data indicates that the top U.S. Thanksgiving travel destinations include Orlando; Anaheim, Calif.; Dallas/Ft. Worth; Phoenix; and Honolulu. Hot international spots include Cancun, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Aruba; Los Cabos, Mexico; and Nassau, Bahamas.
What They Are Saying: Plan Early and Expect Delays
“This Thanksgiving, travel will look a lot different than last year,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel. “Now that the borders are open and new health and safety guidelines are in place, travel is once again high on the list for Americans who are ready to reunite with their loved ones for the holiday.”
“International travel reopening will allow people to reconnect with friends and family and explore new places, while also giving a much-needed boost to the economy,” Twidale added. “But it also means airports will be busier than we’ve seen, so travelers must plan for longer lines and extra time for TSA checks.”
The Details
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