Record numbers of travelers expected over Christmas holiday travel period

WASHINGTON — A record-breaking 122.4 million Americans are expected to travel this holiday season, according to a new forecast from AAA.

The 13-day year-end holiday period, which runs from Dec. 20 through Jan. 1, 2026, marks a 2.2 percent increase over last year’s record of 119.7 million travelers. The surge is driven by a mix of lower gas prices and a persistent post-pandemic demand for cruises and air travel.

“Year-end travel is a mix of family road trips, friend getaways, and tropical vacations,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “Holiday celebrations look different for everyone, but a common thread is the desire to travel, whether it’s returning to your hometown or exploring new destinations.”

Key Points: Holiday Travel by the Numbers

• Total Travelers: 122.4 million (up 2.2 percent from 2024).
• Road Warriors: 109.5 million people will drive, accounting for 89 percent of all holiday travelers.
• Flight Records: A record 8.03 million people will fly domestically, the first time that figure has topped 8 million.
• Gas Prices: The national average has dropped below $3 a gallon for the first time in four years.
• Alternative Travel: Bus, train, and cruise travel is up 9 percent this year and 25 percent since 2019.

Road Trips Dominate as Gas Prices Fall

Driving remains the most popular way to travel, with 109.5 million Americans expected to hit the road. This 2 percent increase over last year is bolstered by the lowest gas prices seen in years. For the first time since 2021, the national average dropped below $3 per gallon this month.

With the influx of drivers, AAA is urging motorists to stay alert. December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and AAA is partnering with MADD to encourage travelers to plan safe rides home.

Last year, AAA responded to over 860,000 calls for roadside assistance during the holidays. Officials are reminding drivers of the “Slow Down, Move Over” laws to protect tow truck operators and first responders working on highway shoulders.

Air Travel and Other Modes Reach New Heights

For the first time on record, domestic air travel will exceed 8 million passengers. Despite the record volume, flying has become more expensive; roundtrip domestic tickets are up 7 percent this year, averaging nearly $900. Experts note that while the days leading up to Christmas are the most expensive, flying on the holiday itself offers the best value.

Other modes of transportation—including buses, trains, and cruises—are seeing the largest percentage growth. Approximately 4.9 million people will use these methods, a 9 percent jump from 2024. Much of this growth is attributed to the continuing boom in the cruise industry.

Rental Cars and Busiest Days

According to AAA partner Hertz, Saturday, Dec. 20, is projected to be the busiest day for rental car pickups. Small SUVs are the most requested vehicle class. The highest demand for rentals is concentrated in warm-weather and major hub cities, including Orlando, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, and Phoenix.