Thanksgiving is one of the most heavily traveled holidays in the United States, and 2024 is shaping up to be no exception. With travel demand rebounding from the pandemic era and new trends in holiday getaways emerging, millions of Americans are gearing up to hit the roads, rails, and skies. Here’s what to expect and tips to make your Thanksgiving travel smoother this year.
Travel Trends for Thanksgiving 2024
- Record-Breaking Crowds AAA predicts over 55 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this Thanksgiving, marking the busiest holiday travel period in nearly two decades. Airports, highways, and train stations are expected to be packed, especially on peak travel days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (November 27) and the Sunday after (December 1).
- Flexible Work and Travel Schedules With remote and hybrid work becoming the norm, many travelers are extending their holiday trips. Expect a noticeable uptick in travel as early as the weekend before Thanksgiving, with many taking advantage of flexible schedules to beat the crowds.
- Airline Capacity and Flight Prices Airlines have increased capacity to popular domestic destinations like New York, Orlando, and Los Angeles. However, airfare remains steep, with an average 5% increase compared to 2023. Early morning flights and smaller regional airports may offer the best opportunities for savings.
- International Escapes Thanksgiving is no longer strictly a domestic travel holiday. An increasing number of Americans are taking advantage of the long weekend to visit international destinations, with Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe leading the pack.
- Road Trips and Shorter Getaways While long-distance travel is growing, regional road trips remain popular. National parks, ski destinations, and quaint towns known for fall foliage are among the top picks for those seeking a more low-key Thanksgiving escape.
Top Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Trip
- Book Early If you haven’t booked your flight, hotel, or rental car yet, do it now. Last-minute bookings will come at a premium, and availability will be limited.
- Pack Light With overbooked flights and limited overhead bin space, traveling with carry-on luggage can save time and reduce stress. If driving, packing smartly ensures you can maximize space for passengers and holiday treats.
- Leave Early or Late Avoid the Thanksgiving Eve rush by leaving earlier in the week or traveling late at night when traffic and crowds are thinner.
- Prepare for Delays Build extra time into your travel plans, whether it’s getting to the airport, navigating highway traffic, or dealing with potential weather disruptions. Download travel apps for real-time updates on traffic, flights, and weather.
- Stay Flexible If your plans are disrupted, be ready to pivot. Travel insurance, flexible booking policies, and backup accommodations can provide peace of mind.
What’s New for 2024
- EV-Friendly Road Trips
Electric vehicle owners will find it easier to travel this Thanksgiving thanks to expanded charging networks. Major highways now have more fast-charging stations, making cross-country EV trips more accessible. - Sustainability in Travel
Many travelers are prioritizing sustainable options, from eco-friendly hotels to carbon-offset programs for flights. Expect to see more travel companies highlighting their green initiatives this holiday season. - Technology for Convenience
Biometric check-ins, mobile boarding passes, and AI-powered customer service are streamlining the travel experience. Download your airline’s app and take advantage of these tools to save time.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving 2024 travel is set to be bustling and vibrant, reflecting the renewed enthusiasm for connecting with loved ones. By planning ahead, staying patient, and embracing flexibility, you can make your journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. Safe travels and happy Thanksgiving!
