Get Ready for a Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Season: 122 Million Americans Set to Hit the Road and Skies!

Holiday Travel 2025: More Americans On the Move Than Ever Before

As the 2025 year-end holidays approach, AAA is forecasting a record-breaking travel season. Between December 20, 2025, and January 1, 2026, an eye-popping 122.4 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home. That’s 2.2% more than last year, marking the busiest holiday travel period ever anticipated!

What’s Fueling the Surge?

• Wallet-Friendly Road Trips: For the first time in four years, national average gas prices have dropped below $3 per gallon, making car trips much more doable for families and road trip fans alike.
• Air Travel on the Rise: Over 8 million people are expected to fly, signaling a big rebound in the skies and the hustle and bustle of airports nationwide.
• Economic Boost: With more folks traveling, businesses in hospitality, retail, and entertainment are gearing up for a holiday season rush (and locals might notice the festive buzz, too).

But It’s Not All Smooth Driving (or Flying)

• Traffic Jams Galore: Since nearly nine out of ten travelers will hit the road, highways—especially near cities—are likely to be packed. Expect longer travel times and maybe that extra playlist or two for the ride.
• More Expensive Flights: If you’re flying, get ready for sticker shock. Domestic round-trip airfares are up about 7% from last year, with fares averaging close to $900.
• Service Strains: With millions looking for places to stay and eat—or needing a little roadside help—hotels, restaurants, and emergency crews could be busier than ever.

What Travelers (and Everyone Else) Should Watch For

• Packed Hotels: Hotels anticipate high occupancy—so booking early is extra important.
• Busy Infrastructure: More vehicles mean roads, highways, and service areas will get a workout, potentially leading to more maintenance and delays.
• Emergency Services On Alert: With more people out and about, roadside and emergency services are bracing for a busy season.

In short, if you’re traveling for the holidays this year, be prepared for bustling travel centers and some possible delays, but also know you’re part of a historic holiday movement. Careful planning, early bookings, and a little patience will go a long way in making sure your holiday adventure stays merry and bright.

Want to see what this could look like on the ground? Watch AAA’s holiday travel forecast video.