Thanksgiving will mark a milestone in the United States, with an estimated total of 79.9 million people traveling to celebrate the holiday.
Data from the American Automobile Association (AAA) indicates that a record is on the horizon. The figures reflect a 2% increase compared to the previous year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Most travelers, around 71.7 million, will choose to travel by road, which will cause significant congestion on the country's main routes.
Approximately 5.8 million people will take flights, while 2.3 million will use alternative means of transportation such as buses, trains, and cruises.
This last segment, adventure lovers at sea, has shown a significant growth of 18% compared to 2019, primarily driven by the resurgence of maritime tourism.
Florida is also preparing for a record, with over 4.5 million residents planning trips of more than 50 miles during this holiday. This marks an increase of 112,000 travelers compared to 2023, reflecting the strong economic dynamism of the southern state.
The vice president of travel for AAA, Debbie Haas, highlighted that the increase in travel is due to factors such as economic recovery, low inflation, and rising incomes.
Furthermore, it was emphasized that these conditions have led to an increase in consumer spending this season, projected to be 4.6% higher than the same period last year.
The AAA has extended the official travel period for Thanksgiving. It will span seven days, from Tuesday, November 26, to Monday, December 2, instead of the traditional five days.
EFE reported that the decrease in fuel prices will be a relief for drivers. It is expected that the national average will fall below 3 dollars per gallon before the start of the travel season.
Such a figure in fuel prices has not been seen since 2021 and may be related to the fact that millions of Americans will be traveling by planes, trains, boats, and vehicles to gather and celebrate Thanksgiving with their families and friends.
Authorities caution that it is important to plan trips well, as there may be long wait times at transport terminals and heavy traffic on the roads.
The potential record for travel confirms that Thanksgiving remains a key date for family gatherings and a reflection of the social and economic recovery in the United States.
Filed under: