AAA Projects Record Holiday Travel Volume
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More than 122 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home during the year-end holiday period spanning December 20, 2025, to January 1, 2026. This projection marks a new all-time high for seasonal travel.
The forecast represents a 2 percent increase over the previous year. Road trips dominate, accounting for 89 percent of travelers as lower fuel prices encourage driving.
National average gasoline prices dipped below $3 per gallon for the first time in four years this month. Prices fell from approximately $3.04 during the prior holiday season.
Air travel also rises, though domestic round-trip flights cost 7 percent more on average. Airlines expanded capacity to meet demand across modes.
The busiest road travel days include the weekends framing Christmas and New Year’s. Car rental demand peaks on December 20 in major markets like Orlando, Los Angeles, and Miami.
Small SUVs lead rental preferences. Hertz reports heightened bookings in sunbelt destinations.
This surge reflects economic resilience despite uncertainties. Travelers prioritize family gatherings and vacations.
AAA bases estimates on data from multiple sources tracking macroeconomic indicators. Household net worth, employment rates, and asset prices inform projections.
Cruise and other non-road/air modes contribute smaller shares. Overall volume equates to millions more person-trips.
The period covers 13 days with two full weekends. Projections finalized in mid-November incorporated early booking trends.
Lower crude oil prices, down 20 percent year-over-year, support affordability. Continued softening into early 2026 remains possible.
This record underscores sustained post-pandemic rebound in leisure mobility. Destinations prepare for elevated visitor inflows through the holidays.
Travelers receive advice to plan routes and book early. Enrollment in emergency notification programs aids safety.
