Travel Predictions for Thanksgiving 2024

This year, Thanksgiving is anticipated to set new records for air travel as millions of Americans plan to reconnect with family and friends over the holiday. According to AAA, approximately 5.84 million travelers are expected to take to the skies from Tuesday, November 26, to Monday, December 2. This marks a 2 percent increase from last year and a staggering 11 percent increase compared to 2019.

Airline Expectations and Pricing Trends

Major airlines like United and American Airlines are preparing for their busiest travel periods yet. United forecasts more than 6.2 million passengers will fly during the Thanksgiving travel window, with the busiest days expected to be November 30 and December 1. Travelers should brace for slightly higher domestic flight costs this year, with prices up 3 percent as compared to last year. Conversely, international flight prices have decreased by 5 percent, leading to a 23 percent increase in international bookings.

Top Destinations and Travel Tips

As airport crowds swell, travelers are encouraged to plan accordingly. For those flying domestically, popular warm-weather destinations include Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. Departure strategies, such as flying early on Sundays, can help mitigate wait times and crowds, especially on peak travel days. Overall, with nearly 79.9 million travelers expected for Thanksgiving, being prepared is key to enjoying this bustling holiday travel season.