9.1 Million Texans to Travel for the Holidays, Says AAA

Nationally, AAA anticipates that 119.33 million Americans will travel during the holiday season, narrowly surpassing the previous travel record set in 2019.

"This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that," said AAA Texas Vice President Galen Grillo. "With Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, we’re seeing more road trips, flights to international destinations, and cruises to warm locales."

Travel by Mode

• By Car: Nearly 90% of holiday travelers will hit the road, making it the most popular way to travel. Road trips remain attractive for their flexibility and lower cost, especially as gas prices remain similar to last year. While gas demand typically drops in December, more people opt for online shopping and working remotely, contributing to fewer people on the roads.
• By Air: Air travel is expected to set a new record, with 7.85 million Americans flying this holiday season, surpassing last year’s 7.5 million. Air travel will increase in Texas from 2023, but it won’t surpass 2019 levels. Airfares are higher this year, with domestic flights averaging $830 and international flights at $1,630—up 4% and 13%, respectively.
• Other Modes of Travel: Travel by bus, train, and cruise is expected to increase by nearly 10% over last year, with a total of 4.47 million Americans choosing these alternatives. Domestic cruise bookings, in particular, have surged by 37%. Cruises remain a popular holiday choice for families seeking festive activities and all-inclusive dining options.

AAA’s Road Trip Safety Tips

As travel volumes increase, AAA Texas offers several safety tips for drivers:

1. Follow Posted Speed Limits: Even minor speed increases can be dangerous. For example, driving 80 mph instead of 75 mph over 100 miles saves only five minutes but increases the risk of a fatal accident.
2. Drive Alert and Refreshed: Lack of sleep can be as dangerous as driving under the influence. Avoid driving after just a few hours of sleep, take breaks every two hours, and switch drivers if possible.
3. Slow Down, Move Over: Every other week in the U.S., a roadside worker is killed. Drivers should slow down and change lanes when passing emergency responders on the roadside.

Best and Worst Times to Drive

According to INRIX, a transportation data provider, the worst traffic delays occur on the weekends before Christmas and New Year's Day, with the actual holidays seeing less congestion. To prevent delays, travelers should avoid major metro areas during peak hours and, if possible, travel early in the morning or after the evening commute.

Top Holiday Destinations

Tropical destinations top the list for holiday travelers, with many heading to Caribbean resorts and cruises. In the U.S., popular spots include Charleston and New Orleans. Bahrain has made the top 10 internationally, thanks to its rich history, pleasant weather, and popular cruise ports. These destinations are based on AAA booking data for travel between December 21, 2024, and January 1, 2025.

With millions expected to travel, AAA Texas urges everyone to plan ahead and prioritize safety on the roads, in the air, and at sea this holiday season.