Americans Travel in Record Numbers This Holiday Season, Orlando Tops US Destinations as Cancun, Punta Cana, Cozumel, San Juan, Nassau and Rome Shine Abroad: New Update You Need to Know

Published on December 19, 2025

Americans are heading out in record numbers this holiday season, fueled by a strong desire for warm destinations, family gatherings, budget friendly road travel, and growing confidence in flying.

Orlando dominates domestic travel with its world class attractions and winter sunshine, while Cancun, Punta Cana, Cozumel, San Juan, Nassau and Rome continue to attract international travelers seeking beaches, culture, and festive year end escapes.

As December draws to a close, holiday travel demand is surging nationwide, positioning this period as one of the busiest on record. Congested highways and near capacity airports reflect a renewed focus on reunions, leisure trips, and extended holiday breaks across the United States.

Travel volume during the late-December holiday window is projected to surpass previous benchmarks, reflecting a steady rise in consumer confidence and a renewed appetite for movement. Compared with last year’s already historic levels, this season is seeing a noticeable increase in the number of people willing to travel long distances, whether for leisure, family gatherings, or extended winter breaks. The upward trend highlights how travel has reasserted itself as a central part of holiday celebrations across the country.

Road travel remains the dominant choice for most holidaymakers. The flexibility of setting one’s own schedule, avoiding airport crowds, and managing costs continues to make driving the preferred option for families and groups. Favorable fuel prices have further encouraged motorists, making longer road trips more feasible and reducing the financial pressure often associated with peak-season travel. As a result, highways and interstates are expected to experience heavy congestion, particularly in the days immediately before Christmas and again around the New Year return rush.

Air travel is also experiencing significant growth, with millions opting to fly to reach distant relatives or warmer climates. Airports nationwide are preparing for sustained surges in passenger traffic, particularly at major hubs and popular leisure gateways. Travelers are increasingly booking flights well in advance, while airlines are operating full schedules to accommodate demand. Despite concerns around delays and crowded terminals, flying remains an attractive option for those covering long distances in limited timeframes.

Certain states are emerging as major contributors to the overall travel surge, driven by large populations and strong outbound demand. In these regions, most travelers are choosing to stay within driving distance, reinforcing the importance of regional tourism and domestic mobility. Short-haul trips to neighboring states, beach destinations, and entertainment hubs are especially popular during this period.

Warm-weather destinations continue to dominate travel wish lists. Cities known for theme parks, beaches, and mild winter climates are attracting a large share of holiday visitors, particularly families seeking to escape colder conditions. Several Florida cities rank among the most sought-after domestic destinations, benefiting from their combination of sunshine, attractions, and extensive travel infrastructure.

International travel is also playing a growing role in holiday plans. Popular beach destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico are drawing travelers in search of resort stays and oceanfront relaxation, while select European cities are appealing to those looking for cultural experiences, festive atmospheres, and historic charm. The mix of short-haul international trips and long-haul cultural journeys reflects the diverse travel motivations shaping this holiday season.

With record numbers on the move, preparation is more important than ever. Travelers heading out by car are advised to ensure their vehicles are road-ready, as winter conditions and heavy traffic can increase the risk of breakdowns. For those flying, careful planning around airport arrival times, flight monitoring, and essential packing can help reduce stress during peak travel days.

As the holiday period unfolds, the surge in travel underscores a broader trend toward experience-driven spending and the enduring value placed on connection and exploration. Whether by road or air, Americans are embracing the journey as much as the destination, making this holiday season one of the most active travel periods in recent memory.

As the holiday season reaches its peak, record breaking travel levels highlight how deeply Americans value connection, leisure, and meaningful experiences at year end. With road trips remaining the top choice and air travel continuing to rebound, both domestic hotspots and international destinations are benefiting from sustained demand. Careful planning and flexibility will be essential as millions travel simultaneously, but the overall outlook signals a strong close to the year for the travel industry and a clear indication that holiday travel remains a cherished tradition.