As Thanksgiving 2024 approaches, the United States is poised to witness unprecedented travel activity, driven by a significant drop in gas prices. The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that nearly 80 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home during the holiday week, marking the highest number on record.
Surge in Road Travel
A substantial portion of this surge is attributed to road travel. AAA estimates that 71.7 million individuals will opt for car journeys, an increase of 1.3 million from the previous year. This uptick is largely influenced by declining gas prices, which are anticipated to drop below $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021.
Air Travel on the Rise
Air travel is also expected to reach new heights, with approximately 5.84 million Americans planning to fly to their Thanksgiving destinations. This figure represents a 2% increase from last year and an 11% rise compared to 2019. Airlines are preparing for this surge by optimizing staffing and operations to accommodate the higher passenger volumes.
Alternative Transportation Gains Popularity
In addition to cars and planes, other modes of transportation are experiencing growth. An estimated 2.3 million people will utilize buses, trains, and cruises during the Thanksgiving period, with cruises seeing a notable 20% increase in bookings.
Gas Prices at a Three-Year Low
The decline in gas prices is a significant factor contributing to the increase in travel. As of mid-November, the national average price for a gallon of gas stood at $3.08, down $0.12 from the previous month and $0.29 lower than the same period last year. Analysts predict that prices could fall below $3 per gallon before Thanksgiving, offering additional savings for travelers.
Travel Tips for the Holiday Season
With record-breaking travel numbers expected, experts advise planning ahead to avoid congestion. For road travelers, departing early in the morning or late in the evening can help circumvent peak traffic times. Air travelers are encouraged to arrive at airports well in advance and consider utilizing services like TSA PreCheck to expedite security screening.
As Americans prepare to reunite with loved ones this Thanksgiving, the combination of lower gas prices and a strong desire to travel post-pandemic is setting the stage for a historic holiday travel season.
