How Many People Will Travel This Holiday Season: A Forecast

As the holiday season approaches, many people are wondering how many travelers to expect. According to AAA, 55.4 million people traveled 50 miles or more from home during the Thanksgiving holiday period, which is a 2.3% increase from last year and the third-highest Thanksgiving forecast since AAA began tracking holiday travel in 2000.

The holiday season is a busy time for travel, with many people visiting family and friends or taking a much-needed vacation. While the number of travelers may vary from year to year, it is clear that millions of people will be on the move during this time. Whether traveling by plane, train, or car, it is important to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays or crowds.

Travel Forecast Overview

The holiday season is fast approaching, and many people are wondering how many travelers to expect this year. This section will provide an overview of the travel forecast for the upcoming holiday season, including expected numbers of travelers and a comparison to pre-pandemic levels.

Expected Number of Travelers

According to AAA, more than 109 million Americans are expected to travel for the holidays this year, a 34% increase from last year. This number includes both air and car travel. Of the 109 million travelers, 4.7 million are expected to fly, which is a 6.6% increase from 2022 and the highest number of Thanksgiving air travelers since 2005.

Comparison to Pre-Pandemic Levels

While this year’s holiday travel is expected to increase significantly compared to last year, it is still not at pre-pandemic levels. According to Deloitte’s survey, nearly half of the country plans to travel between Thanksgiving and the end of the year. However, the number of travelers is still 5% lower than pre-pandemic levels in 2019 Fortune.

Overall, this year’s holiday travel forecast is expected to be significantly higher than last year but still not at pre-pandemic levels. Travelers should expect crowded airports and highways, especially on the busiest travel days. To ensure a smooth travel experience, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and arrive at the airport early.

Modes of Transportation

The holiday season is a time when many people travel to visit their loved ones. The modes of transportation people choose vary depending on their preferences, budget, and distance to be covered.

Air Travel Trends

Air travel is a popular mode of transportation during the holiday season.

Due to the high demand for flights, airlines tend to increase their fares during the holiday season. It is advisable to book flights in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes. In addition, flight delays and cancellations are common during the holiday season, so travelers are advised to plan accordingly and keep in touch with their airlines for updates.

Road Travel Insights

Road trips are also a popular mode of transportation during the holiday season. According to a AAA report, 1.55 million travelers are expected to head out of town using other modes of transportation like buses, trains, and cruises.

Roads can get congested during the holiday season, especially on the busiest travel days.

To avoid traffic delays, travelers are advised to plan their routes in advance and consider traveling during off-peak hours. In addition, it is important to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition before embarking on a road trip.

Train and Cruise Line Popularity

Train and cruise line travel are also popular modes of transportation during the holiday season. According to a Travel Pulse report, travel by bus, rail, and cruise ship is expected to rise to 3.6 million this holiday season, a 23% increase from last year and nearly 94% of 2019’s volume.

Traveling by train or cruise ship can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to travel during the holiday season. However, delays and cancellations can also occur, so travelers are advised to keep in touch with their providers for updates.

Overall, the mode of transportation chosen during the holiday season depends on personal preferences, budget, and distance to be covered. Travelers are advised to plan in advance, keep in touch with their providers for updates, and remain patient during delays and congestion.

Peak Travel Times

The holiday season is a busy time for travel, with millions of Americans hitting the road and taking to the skies to visit family and friends. To help you plan your trip, here are the worst and best times to travel during the holiday season.

Worst Times to Travel

According to AAA, the busiest travel days for Thanksgiving are typically the Wednesday before and the Sunday after the holiday. For Christmas, the busiest travel days are usually the Friday before and the day after Christmas. If you’re traveling during these times, be prepared for peak congestion and longer travel times.

If you’re traveling to or from a major metro area, such as New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago, expect even more traffic and delays. Plan ahead and consider leaving earlier or later in the day to avoid the worst of the rush hour traffic.

Best Times to Travel

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and long lines, consider traveling on the actual holiday itself. According to Fortune, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day are usually the least busy travel days of the holiday season.

Another option is to travel early in the morning or late at night. This can help you avoid the worst of the traffic and get to your destination faster. If you’re driving, be sure to check traffic reports and plan your route accordingly.

Overall, the key to a stress-free holiday travel experience is to plan ahead and be flexible. Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or train, expect some delays and congestion, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. With a little patience and a lot of planning, you can make your holiday travel a success.

Destination Hotspots

Domestic Favorites

The holiday season is here and many people are looking for exciting places to visit. According to AAA Newsroom, more than 109 million Americans are expected to travel for the holidays. Some of the most popular domestic destinations include New York City, Las Vegas, and theme parks such as Disney World and Universal Studios.

New York City is a favorite for many holiday travelers due to its festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy ice skating at Rockefeller Center, admire the holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue, and attend the iconic ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve. Las Vegas is another popular destination, offering a variety of entertainment options such as world-class shows and casinos. Theme parks are also a hit with families, providing a fun and exciting experience for all ages.

International Attractions

For those looking to venture outside of the country, Mexico and the Caribbean are popular destinations due to their warm weather and beautiful beaches. Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages, making it easy for travelers to relax and enjoy their vacation.

Asia and Europe are also attractive destinations for holiday travelers. Cities such as Tokyo, Japan and Seoul, South Korea offer a unique cultural experience with beautiful holiday light displays and festive markets. In Europe, cities like Paris, France and Vienna, Austria are known for their stunning Christmas markets and delicious holiday treats.

Overall, there are many exciting destinations to choose from this holiday season. Whether travelers are looking to stay domestic or venture abroad, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Travel Expenses

As the holiday season approaches, many people are planning to travel to visit their loved ones. However, travel expenses can add up quickly and put a strain on one’s budget. In this section, we will take a closer look at the different types of expenses associated with holiday travel.

Accommodation Costs

One of the biggest expenses when traveling is accommodation costs. Hotels and other lodging options can be quite expensive, especially during peak travel times. In addition, inflation and interest rates can also impact the cost of hotel stays. However, there are ways to save money on accommodation costs. For example, travelers can consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or vacation rentals. Additionally, using rewards programs or loyalty programs can also help reduce the cost of hotel stays.

Transportation Prices

Another major expense when traveling is transportation costs. Gas prices and airfare prices can fluctuate, making it challenging to budget for transportation expenses. However, travelers can take steps to reduce the cost of transportation. For example, carpooling or using public transportation can be more cost-effective than driving or flying solo. Additionally, booking flights well in advance or using rewards programs can also help reduce airfare costs.

Budgeting for the Holidays

When it comes to holiday spending, it’s important to have a budget in place. This can help travelers avoid overspending and ensure that they have enough money to cover all of their expenses. To create a holiday budget, travelers should start by estimating the cost of their travel expenses, including accommodation and transportation costs. From there, they can allocate funds for gifts, food, and other holiday-related expenses. It’s also a good idea to track spending throughout the holiday season to ensure that they stay within their budget.

Overall, holiday travel can be expensive, but there are ways to reduce costs and stay within budget. By being mindful of expenses and taking advantage of cost-saving strategies, travelers can enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank.

Travel Experience Factors

As the holiday season approaches, many people are wondering how many will travel this year. Several factors will influence the travel experience, including the impact of hybrid work schedules, health and safety concerns, and generational preferences.

Impact of Hybrid Work Schedules

With many companies adopting hybrid work schedules, more people have the flexibility to travel during the holiday season. According to a Morning Consult Research Intelligence data, about 40% of consumers plan to travel more this year than last year, with the majority citing the flexibility of remote work as the reason.

Health and Safety Concerns

Despite the increased flexibility, health and safety concerns are still a major factor in travel plans. Many people are worried about the spread of COVID-19 and are taking precautions to protect themselves and their families. According to a TravelPulse study, 74% of respondents cited rising gas prices, and 68% said they were concerned about the spread of COVID-19.

Generational Preferences

Generational preferences also play a role in travel plans. According to a NerdWallet report, most 2023 holiday travelers (75%) plan to use a credit card to pay for their travel expenses. However, Gen Z (ages 18-26) holiday travelers are more likely to use alternative payment methods such as Venmo or Cash App.

In addition, different generations have different preferences when it comes to travel experiences. For example, Gen X (ages 41-56) is more likely to prioritize relaxation and downtime, while Gen Z is more interested in adventure and exploration. Companies that cater to these preferences are likely to see more business this holiday season.

Overall, while many factors will influence travel plans this holiday season, companies that prioritize health and safety, offer flexible payment options, and cater to different generational preferences are likely to see the most success.

Industry Perspectives

Travel Industry Adaptations

The travel industry has been working hard to adapt to the changing needs of consumers during the holiday season. According to a survey conducted in September and October 2023, travel brands are making changes to meet the needs of consumers. For example, they are offering more flexible cancellation policies, providing more options for contactless check-in, and increasing cleaning and sanitation measures.

The industry is also working to address concerns about travel delays and cancellations. Airlines are increasing the number of seats available to meet demand, and airports are offering more amenities to make travel more comfortable.

Consumer Behavior and Expectations

The same survey found that nearly half of U.S. adults plan to travel during the 2023 holiday season, despite concerns about health and finances. This represents a significant increase from the previous year. However, the survey also found that consumers are more likely to travel domestically than internationally, and they are more likely to travel by car than by plane.

Consumers are also expecting more from travel brands. They want more flexibility in their travel plans, and they expect brands to provide more information on safety and health measures. They are also looking for more personalized experiences, and they want brands to offer more options for contactless check-in and other services.

In conclusion, the travel industry is adapting to meet the changing needs of consumers during the holiday season. Consumers are looking for more flexibility, more information on safety and health measures, and more personalized experiences. The industry is responding by offering more flexible cancellation policies, increasing cleaning and sanitation measures, and providing more options for contactless check-in.