Thanksgiving 2024 Travel Surge: New Record 79.8 Million Expected on US Roads and Airports, Breaking Pre-Pandemic Levels – Travel And Tour World

The Thanksgiving travel season in 2024 is poised to set new records for road and air congestion across the United States. According to AAA, nearly 79.8 million Americans are expected to travel during the holiday week beginning Tuesday, November 26, through Monday, December 2. This figure surpasses the previous record of 78.3 million travelers set in 2023, reflecting the sustained recovery and growth of holiday travel post-pandemic. Tiffany Wright, an AAA spokesperson, highlighted that this year’s numbers indicate not just a rebound but a notable increase over pre-pandemic levels.

The bulk of holiday travelers—71.7 million people—will take to the highways, exceeding the 70.6 million who drove in 2019. Meanwhile, air travel is also expected to rise, with 5.84 million people projected to fly, marking an 11% increase over 2019 and a 2% jump from 2023.

Increased Risks on the Road

The significant rise in road travel presents safety concerns, particularly due to the density of vehicles on highways. South Carolina Highway Patrol Master Trooper Mitchell Ridgeway pointed out that higher traffic volumes inherently lead to reduced space for maneuvering, thereby increasing the risk of collisions. Ridgeway emphasized that even cautious drivers face potential dangers due to the mistakes of others.

To mitigate risks, Ridgeway urged motorists to maintain safe speeds, keep appropriate following distances, and avoid distractions such as cell phones. He also stressed the importance of responsible behavior when consuming alcohol, advising travelers to use designated drivers or rideshare services if necessary. For added safety, law enforcement agencies across various states, including Greenville County in South Carolina, are deploying additional officers to monitor traffic and ensure compliance with road safety regulations.

Road Safety Tips for Travelers:

• Avoid distractions, especially cell phone use while driving.
• Maintain safe speeds and following distances.
• Plan for a designated driver or use rideshare services if consuming alcohol.

Timing is Key for Road Travelers

AAA provided detailed recommendations for avoiding peak traffic times during the holiday week. Morning hours are generally the best for travel, while afternoons and evenings tend to be the busiest. For instance, on Tuesday, November 26, the worst traffic is anticipated between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., with mornings before 10 a.m. being the most favorable for travel. Thanksgiving Day itself is expected to see minimal traffic, while Sunday, December 1, will likely be the busiest return travel day, with congestion peaking between noon and 6 p.m.

Air Travel Hits New Highs

Airports across the nation are also bracing for an exceptionally busy Thanksgiving season. With 5.84 million people expected to fly, airlines and airports are gearing up for a nearly 2% increase in passengers compared to last year. This surge represents a broader trend of increasing air travel as more Americans return to flying for leisure and family visits.

Tiffany Cherry, spokesperson for the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, advised travelers to arrive at least two hours before their flight to ensure a smooth experience. She emphasized that while this recommendation applies year-round, it is especially critical during the holiday season when airports are at their busiest. The rise in air travel underscores the growing reliance on air connectivity during peak travel seasons, making early planning and adherence to airport guidelines essential for passengers.

Broader Impact on the Travel Industry

The 2024 Thanksgiving travel boom highlights several key trends shaping the travel industry. The continued growth of holiday travel reflects not only the resilience of the industry post-pandemic but also changing consumer preferences for reconnecting with loved ones during major holidays. Airlines, airports, and road safety agencies are ramping up their resources to accommodate this surge, demonstrating the importance of infrastructure readiness in meeting traveler demand.

For airlines, the increase in passengers offers an opportunity to boost revenue, while also posing challenges such as longer security lines, higher baggage volumes, and the need for enhanced customer service. On the roadways, the heavy congestion is a reminder of the pressing need for investments in transportation infrastructure and public awareness campaigns on road safety.

A Global Perspective on Travel Trends

The Thanksgiving travel surge also carries broader implications for the global travel industry. The U.S., as a major player in the tourism market, often sets the tone for travel trends worldwide. Record-breaking numbers for domestic holiday travel indicate a strong rebound in consumer confidence and a willingness to spend on leisure and family connections. These patterns could inspire similar growth in other countries during their respective holiday seasons.

At the same time, the emphasis on safety, planning, and infrastructure readiness serves as a model for managing high-traffic periods globally. Countries with significant domestic travel markets, such as China and India, may draw lessons from the U.S. experience in addressing congestion and improving travel experiences during peak seasons.

Preparing for the Holiday Rush

As Thanksgiving approaches, travelers are encouraged to plan strategically to navigate the record-breaking crowds. Whether by air or road, early preparation, adherence to safety guidelines, and attention to travel timing can significantly enhance the holiday experience. For the travel industry, this surge offers both opportunities and challenges, underscoring the importance of adaptability and customer-centric approaches in meeting evolving traveler needs.