The American Automobile Association (AAA), a nonprofit organization providing travel, transportation, and roadside assistance services in the United States, estimates that nearly 120 million Americans will travel during this year’s holiday season, with air travel expected to reach a new record. While slightly below the 2019 peak of 121 million, this figure represents a significant increase compared to the 104.5 million travelers recorded last year, signaling a continued rebound in holiday tourism.

The majority of travelers, approximately 107 million people, will choose to drive, accounting for nearly 90% of all holiday travel. Although the record of 108 million drivers set in 2019 remains unmatched, this year’s numbers reflect a strong recovery to pre-pandemic levels. In Florida alone, 6.4 million residents are expected to travel by car, marking an increase of 220,000 people over last year.

Air travel is projected to reach record levels this year, driven by strong demand and lower fuel prices. According to AAA, the average price of gasoline in the United States will drop to its lowest level in over three years, encouraging both air and road travel.

An analysis by transportation analytics firm INRIX indicates that December 22 will be the busiest day for traffic as many families embark on their holiday journeys. In contrast, December 25 and January 1 are expected to have lighter traffic, benefiting those traveling on these dates.

AAA offers the following recommendations for those traveling this season:

• Plan ahead: Choose less congested travel times, such as early morning or late evening.
• Stay informed: Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates.
• Prepare your vehicle: Perform a pre-trip inspection to avoid breakdowns.

“This time of year is perfect for creating unforgettable memories with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. She added that with Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, travel demand is expected to be spread out over the weekends before and after the holiday.