AAA predicts a record-setting 81.8 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home for Thanksgiving this year, traveling between Tuesday, November 25, and Monday, December 1st. This marks an increase of 1.6 million holiday travelers compared to last year.
According to AAA officials, nearly 90 percent will hit the road, with 73 million traveling by car—a number that could climb if flight disruptions occur. In the East South Central region, which includes Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi, more than 4.6 million are expected to travel, most by car.
Air travel is also up, as six million Americans will take to the skies—a two percent increase over last year. AAA says booking data puts the average round-trip domestic flight at around $700.
For those driving, AAA recommends filling up your tank the night before, and checking your battery and tires, as last year brought nearly 600,000 emergency roadside calls. With high rates of impaired driving during the holiday, officials urge everyone to plan a safe way home.
According to AAA, top destinations this year include Florida hotspots, California, and New York, while international travelers are heading to Europe, the Caribbean, and even Australia. If you’re traveling, try to leave in the morning and move over for emergency responders whenever possible.
