(PADUCAH, Ky.)-Americans are gearing up for what’s projected to be the busiest year-end holiday travel season on record, with AAA forecasting that 122.4 million people will journey at least 50 miles from home between December 20 and January 1.
The projection represents a 2.2% increase over last year’s already record-breaking numbers and marks another milestone in Americans’ post-pandemic embrace of holiday travel.
“As we continue to set new travel records, it’s clear that most Americans love to travel and make it a priority, especially when making year-end travel plans,” said Jim Garrity, director of public affairs for AAA East Central.
Cars Remain King as Gas Prices Drop
Road trips will dominate the holiday landscape, with 109.5 million Americans expected to travel by automobile—accounting for 89% of all holiday travelers. The preference for driving comes as gas prices have dropped significantly, with the national average falling below $3 per gallon for the first time in four years. Last year’s holiday season saw prices averaging $3.04.
However, the surge in road travel comes with safety concerns. December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and AAA is urging drivers to make safe choices during what historically ranks as one of the most dangerous times on the roads. Last year, AAA responded to more than 860,000 emergency roadside assistance calls during the holiday period.
For those planning to drive, INRIX traffic data suggests avoiding the roads between noon and 8 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, and Sunday, December 21. The weekend before Christmas is expected to see the heaviest congestion, while Christmas Day and New Year’s Day itself should offer the lightest traffic.
Air Travel Breaks 8 Million Barrier
For the first time ever, domestic air travel during the year-end holidays will exceed 8 million passengers, with AAA projecting 8.03 million flyers—a 2.3% increase from 2024. But the convenience comes at a cost: round-trip domestic tickets are averaging nearly $900, representing a 7% increase from last year.
Travelers looking to save money should consider flying on Christmas Day itself, which offers cheaper fares than the days leading up to the holiday. New Year’s flights remain pricey, particularly for those returning home on January 1 or extending their celebrations through the following weekend.
For those renting cars at their destinations, Saturday, December 20 is expected to be the busiest pick-up day, with Orlando, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, and Phoenix seeing the highest demand.
Cruises Continue Post-Pandemic Boom
Alternative transportation methods—including buses, trains, and especially cruises—are seeing the strongest growth, with a 9% increase to 4.9 million travelers. The cruise industry has been particularly robust, with demand up 25% since 2019 as travelers continue seeking ocean voyages in the post-pandemic era.
Sunshine Destinations Lead the Way
When it comes to where Americans are heading, warm weather destinations are commanding the top spots. Orlando claims the number one domestic destination, followed by Fort Lauderdale and Miami. On the international front, Mexican beach towns dominate, with Cancun, Cozumel, and Puerto Vallarta all making the top five. Caribbean islands and tropical destinations round out the list, though Rome and Sydney also crack the top ten for international travelers.
In the East South Central region, which includes Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, 6.8 million people are expected to travel—a 1% increase from last year. Air travel in the region is showing particularly strong growth at 6.4%.
As Americans prepare to ring in 2026, the message from travel experts is clear: plan ahead, stay safe, and expect company on the roads, in the skies, and on the seas.
