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Thanksgiving is here, and so is the great American tradition of traveling to be with loved ones. This year, nearly 80 million people are packing their bags and setting out for destinations near and far, making it one of the busiest—and most exciting—Thanksgiving travel periods ever.
Whether you’re navigating highways with a turkey in tow or catching a flight with pumpkin pie vibes, AAA says this holiday season is breaking records across the board.
AAA attributes the travel boom to a mix of holiday spirit and post-pandemic wanderlust.
The open road is calling, and 71.7 million travelers are answering! That’s 1.3 million more drivers than last year, fueled by gas prices that have dipped below $3 a gallon—perfect timing for holiday cheer (and savings).
For those taking to the skies, buckle up for the busiest Thanksgiving ever in airports. A whopping 5.84 million people are expected to fly domestically, a 2% increase from last year and an 11% jump since 2019. International flights are taking off too, with bookings up 23%. Whether you're heading to Grandma’s house or jetting off to a sun-soaked getaway, it seems everyone has the travel bug this year.
The TSA is already gearing up for a record-breaking week, preparing to screen 18.3 million travelers between Tuesday and Monday. Sunday after Thanksgiving is expected to see the most action, with over 3 million flyers predicted to pass through security.
In Louisville, Thanksgiving travel is bustling. Nearly 44,000 travelers are expected to pass through the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport from Tuesday to Sunday. Wednesday is set to be the busiest day, with over 9,800 travelers departing. For an airport that’s been setting monthly records all year, this holiday is just the cherry on top—or should we say, the gravy on the turkey?
The roads may be packed, but safety is still the top priority. In Kentucky, distracted driving causes over 40,000 crashes each year, and officials are urging everyone to “buckle up and put the phone down.” Governor Andy Beshear is encouraging travelers to stay alert and enjoy the holiday safely, whether you’re behind the wheel or strolling through busy streets.
AAA attributes the travel boom to a mix of holiday spirit and post-pandemic wanderlust. “Thanksgiving is all about reconnecting,” says Stacey Barber, AAA Travel VP. “We’re seeing people not just heading home, but also planning new adventures and memory-making trips.”
Lower gas prices, cheaper flights, and the irresistible pull of stuffing and pumpkin pie have made this year a record-setter. After all, what’s Thanksgiving without a little chaos, a lot of family, and the excitement of the journey?
So wherever you’re headed—by car, plane, or maybe even train—pack your patience, your favorite holiday snacks, and a little extra gratitude for the memories you’re about to make. Here’s to a Thanksgiving full of joy, travel tales, and plenty of second helpings!
Source: EUcourier-journal.com
