122 Million Americans Expected to Travel This Holiday Season – How Hotels Are Preparing for the Record-Breaking Surge in 2025!

Published on December 14, 2025

122 Million Americans Expected to Travel This Holiday Season – How Hotels Are Preparing for the Record-Breaking Surge in 2025! As the holiday season approaches, the U.S. is set to experience a monumental surge in travel, with 122 million Americans expected to hit the roads and skies during Christmas and New Year’s in 2025. This marks a 2.2% increase over last year, indicating strong consumer confidence and a continued rebound in the travel industry. With such a significant rise in travel numbers, both the airline industry and hospitality sector are working overtime to accommodate the influx of travelers. Major airlines like Delta, United, and American Airlines are ramping up their flight schedules, while hotel chains such as Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt are preparing to manage near-full occupancy in popular destinations across the country. The surge in travel presents both exciting opportunities and logistical challenges for the travel industry, making it essential for travelers to plan ahead to ensure a smooth, enjoyable holiday journey. Whether flying or booking accommodations, knowing what to expect and how to prepare will be key to navigating the busiest travel season of the year.

122 Million Americans Expected to Travel This Holiday Season – How Hotels Are Preparing for the Record-Breaking Surge in 2025!

The holiday season in 2025 is expected to see a surge in travel like never before. With over 122 million Americans planning to travel during Christmas and New Year’s, the number of holiday travelers is set to break records. This marks a 2.2% increase from the previous year, signaling a robust recovery and growing confidence in the travel industry. With this massive influx of travelers, both the airline industry and the hospitality sector are gearing up to handle the surge, offering travelers new opportunities and challenges.

The Holiday Travel Surge: What to Expect

The 122 million travelers anticipated during the 2025 holiday season is no small feat. This number surpasses the previous year’s record of 119 million, which was already a high. According to industry reports, this surge is largely driven by the ongoing recovery in the post-pandemic travel world, as Americans look to reunite with family and friends and enjoy vacations after years of disrupted travel. The surge will see Americans flocking to airports, hotels, and tourist destinations in droves, making it crucial for both the airline industry and the hospitality industry to be prepared.

How Airlines Are Preparing for the Record-Breaking Travel Surge

The airline industry is no stranger to the peaks and valleys of holiday travel. However, with 122 million people traveling this season, the demand for seats will be at an all-time high. In fact, major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines are already preparing for this monumental influx by increasing flight frequencies and deploying larger aircraft to meet the demand.

Increased Flight Frequencies and Larger Aircraft

To accommodate the increase in holiday travel, airlines are significantly boosting flight frequencies across popular routes. For example, United Airlines is planning additional flights on its domestic and international routes to help alleviate congestion. Similarly, American Airlines and Delta are investing in larger aircraft on high-traffic routes to increase capacity. These extra flights and larger planes will ensure that the majority of travelers can reach their destinations without facing long delays or overcrowding.

Flight Details and Routes to Watch

If you are planning to travel during the holiday season, it’s important to book flights early, as the increase in demand will lead to higher competition for seats. Popular routes such as New York to Los Angeles, Chicago to Miami, and San Francisco to Seattle are expected to see the highest demand. These cities, which serve as major travel hubs, will experience the most crowded flights, with delays potentially increasing during peak travel times.

Airlines like Delta are adding direct flights to less common destinations, such as St. George in Utah, to reduce congestion on the larger hubs. Travelers planning to fly during the peak periods around Christmas and New Year’s should be prepared for longer wait times and potential delays, particularly on routes with heavy demand.

Tips for Navigating Holiday Flights

• Book early: As demand is higher than usual, booking your flight as early as possible will help you secure better rates and preferred flight times.
• Be flexible with your dates: Flights around Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve are typically the most crowded. If possible, travel a few days earlier or later to avoid peak congestion.
• Prepare for delays: With higher demand and potential weather disruptions, it’s important to plan for longer travel times. Arrive at the airport early and keep track of your flight’s status.

Hotels Preparing for the Surge

The hospitality industry is facing an equally significant challenge. With 122 million people expected to travel, hotels are bracing for the rush. High-end chains such as Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt are seeing booking volumes skyrocket, especially in major tourist destinations like New York City, Las Vegas, and Orlando.

Increased Occupancy and Price Hikes

Many hotels are reporting occupancy rates nearing 100%, especially in popular tourist destinations. Hotels that were once on the edge of full bookings are now finding themselves selling out weeks in advance, with many properties raising room rates to capitalize on the increased demand. For example, room rates at Hilton properties in popular cities are expected to increase by up to 15% during peak holiday periods. The demand is also affecting mid-range hotel chains like Marriott and Holiday Inn, where prices are expected to rise by similar margins.

Managing Hotel Bookings

As the holiday season approaches, travelers should be aware that booking rooms early is critical. If you’re planning to visit major cities or popular tourist destinations, it’s essential to secure your accommodations well in advance to avoid missing out on your preferred hotel or facing sky-high prices. Many hotels are offering early-bird discounts for travelers who book months in advance, so taking advantage of these deals can help reduce costs.

Hotel Chains’ Preparations

Major hotel chains like Marriott and Hyatt are ramping up their staffing levels, ensuring that they have enough employees to handle the expected influx of guests. In addition, many hotels are offering special holiday packages that include exclusive amenities such as spa services, holiday dining experiences, and family-friendly activities to enhance the travel experience. For example, Hilton is offering festive-themed packages with included dinners, guided tours, and discounts on nearby attractions for families looking to make the most of their holiday getaway.

The Impact on Tourist Destinations

While the increased travel surge is excellent news for the economy, it also presents challenges for many popular tourist destinations. In places like Las Vegas, New York City, and Orlando, where visitors flock year-round, the holiday rush is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it brings increased revenues for local businesses, airlines, and hotels. On the other, it can lead to overcrowded tourist attractions, long wait times, and potential issues with overcrowding.

Popular Destinations

Destinations like Orlando, home to Disney World and Universal Studios, are expecting large crowds during the holiday season. Hotels and theme parks alike are preparing for the influx of visitors by offering extended hours, additional services, and promotional events. However, long lines, crowded parks, and higher prices should be expected.

In New York City, the holiday season is a spectacle, with tourists flocking to see the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and other iconic events. Hotels in the city, including The Ritz-Carlton and Hilton Garden Inn, are offering special holiday packages, but travelers should expect higher room rates and crowded streets.

Tips for Enjoying Popular Tourist Destinations

• Plan ahead: Given the sheer number of visitors, it’s crucial to plan your days carefully. Make reservations for dining, attractions, and activities well in advance.
• Visit off-peak hours: If possible, visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heaviest crowds.
• Use public transportation: Many popular tourist cities, such as New York and Chicago, offer extensive public transit systems that are often more efficient than driving, especially during the holidays.

Winter Travel Tips for Tourists

• Pack Smart: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes for exploring in snow or rain.
• Check Weather Reports: Always stay updated on weather forecasts, especially if you’re flying or traveling to a location prone to winter storms.
• Use Travel Apps: Download travel apps for real-time updates on flight statuses, hotel bookings, and local events to stay informed and avoid surprises.

The Future of Holiday Travel

As the number of travelers increases year after year, the travel and hospitality industries will continue to evolve. Airlines will continue to innovate with new routes, better services, and faster check-in processes. Hotels will strive to meet guest expectations by improving their amenities and customer service to accommodate the growing demand. With the right planning, both airlines and hotels will rise to the challenge of accommodating record numbers of travelers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable holiday season for everyone.

122 Million Americans are set to travel this holiday season, breaking records and flooding airports and hotels across the country! With a 2.2% travel surge, here’s how airlines and hotels are preparing for the busiest season yet — and what you need to know to avoid chaos!

Wrapping Up

The 2025 holiday season promises to be a landmark moment for American travel, with over 122 million Americans expected to travel. The airline industry, from Delta to United, is preparing for a record-breaking surge in passengers, while major hotel chains like Hilton and Marriott are gearing up to handle higher demand. Whether you’re flying or booking a hotel room, it’s clear that early planning and flexibility will be key to navigating the busy holiday season. By following these travel tips and keeping up with the latest flight and hotel information, travelers can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable holiday journey.