AAA expecting a record-setting year for holiday travel
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It should be another record-setting year for holiday travel in 2025, AAA predicts, with 122.4 million Americans going at least 50 miles from home.
Why it matters: The holidays are already stressful enough without adding extra miles to your plans.
The big picture: The prediction comes fresh off a record-breaking Thanksgiving travel season, and forecasts a 2.2% increase over 2024's record of 119.7 million Christmas season travelers, AAA says.
- The company's analysis is based on a 13-day stretch between Dec. 20 and Jan. 1.
Zoom in: San Diego International Airport expects a 4-5% increase in passengers during the holidays. That's driven by airlines offering more flights and new routes, according to SAN.
- The terminals should be busiest today, Dec. 28 and Jan. 4.
- The most popular destinations this year are Las Vegas, San Francisco, Denver, Phoenix, and Seattle.
What they're saying: "Year-end travel is a mix of family road trips, friend getaways and tropical vacations," said AAA vice president of travel Stacey Barber.
- "Holiday celebrations look different for everyone, but a common thread is the desire to travel."
Getting there: Most U.S. travelers — 109.5 million — are expected to take holiday road trips.
- Driving continues to be a relatively cheap way to get around, with the national average gas price dropping below $3 per gallon this month, AAA says.
- Yes, but: We're paying about $4.53/gallon in San Diego County and California's average is $4.33/gallon.
- Air travelers will follow as a distant second with a projected 8 million people on domestic flights, according to AAA.
The intrigue: A mix of other options, including bus, train and cruise ships, will make up nearly 5 million travelers, AAA says.
- Cruising is a growing category thanks in large part to the record-setting post-pandemic demand.
What we're watching: Americans traveling abroad next year are favoring Eastern European destinations as they make their plans.
- Kate's thought bubble: Looks like I'm a trend setter with my Bulgarian honeymoon!