Travel
AAA holiday forecast: Record-breaking travel expected on roads, at airports
Tips for driving during wintry weather
AAA Mid-Atlantic has some tips for driving during wintry weather. 12/10/24
A record-breaking number of Americans are expected to travel between Saturday, Dec. 21 and New Year’s Day, according to new predictions from AAA. An estimated 119.3 million will travel 50 miles or more during that period, narrowly surpassing the record set in 2019 and increasing from last year by 3 million.
“This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. “This year, with Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we’re anticipating record-breaking travel numbers the weekend before and the weekend after the holiday.”
The vast majority of travelers will be driving to their destinations, according to AAA, with 6.6% expected to travel by plane and 3.7% by other modes of transportation like buses, trains and cruises. Domestic cruise bookings are actually up by 37% compared to last holiday season.
Record air travel
A predicted 7.85 million passengers will travel by plane this holiday season, breaking last year’s record. Data shows flights are 4% more expensive this year, with domestic flights averaging $830. International flights cost $1,630 on average, according to AAA.
The most popular flight destinations in the U.S. are in Florida, and the most popular destinations abroad are in Mexico and the Caribbean.
When are the best and worst times to drive?
AAA predicts traffic will be at its lowest earlier in the day and at its worst in the afternoon and early evening.
Road congestion will likely not be impacted on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day – but if you’re planning to leave the day after Christmas, make sure to hit the road early. The worst traffic on Thursday, Dec. 26 is expected between noon and 5 p.m.
Congestion on I-95 south between Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. is expected to be at its peak on Sunday, Dec. 22 at 4:45 p.m. Drive times will be about 40% longer than usual, according to AAA.
Tips for making it to your destination safely
With an additional 2.5 million people on the roads this holiday season, AAA has recommendations on how to make it to your destination – and your loved ones – in one piece. First, while speeding may be tempting, AAA cautions against it. It can make crashes more dangerous and even deadly.
AAA also warns to only drive when you’re alert, making sure to take breaks ever 2 hours or 100 miles. You can use these breaks to switch drivers or take a short nap. You should also travel during hours you’re normally awake, and avoid heavy meals, drowsy medications and alcohol.
Finally, AAA reminds drivers to be aware of roadside workers to avoid preventable incidents. When you see an emergency responder on the side of the road or a stranded driver, reduce your speed and change lanes if possible. All states have laws requiring drivers to move over.
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