Hawaii Joins Florida, Arizona, California, New York, Nevada, Texas, and Other States in Experiencing a Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Surge with Unprecedented Visitor Numbers Across the US This Year What You Need to Know

Published on December 26, 2025

The United States is experiencing an extraordinary holiday travel surge in 2025, with travel projections reaching record heights. According to forecasts, an estimated 122.4 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles away from home between December 20 and January 1, surpassing previous holiday travel records. This milestone signifies a 2.2% increase over last year’s record, highlighting strong mobility and renewed confidence among holidaymakers. Domestic road trips, flights, and alternative travel modes are all contributing to this significant upswing.

Holiday travel in 2025 reflects robust consumer confidence and a deep desire to reconnect with loved ones and explore iconic destinations. As year‑end celebrations approach, families, friends and solo travellers alike are embracing both traditional and spontaneous trips, from coastal retreats to mountain getaways.

Hawaii’s Role in America’s Holiday Travel Surge

Hawaii has been a standout performer in the US travel scene this year. With its pristine beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes and rich indigenous culture, the island state has seen solid demand throughout 2025. Visitor statistics show that total arrivals to Hawaii in the first nine months exceeded 7 million, with both domestic visitors and international travellers contributing to rising numbers. These figures represent not just growth in headcount but a sustained interest in high‑quality experiences, whether for leisure, adventure or celebrations.

Hawaii’s tourism industry has also recorded healthy visitor spending and steady recovery compared with previous years. While some months have shown variability in arrivals, higher visitor expenditure has underscored the market’s resilience, particularly as travellers seek premium activities, dining and accommodation.

Road Travel Dominates Holiday Trips

A defining feature of the 2025 holiday surge is the predominance of road travel. Estimates indicate that the overwhelming majority of holidaymakers — more than 109 million — will travel by road. This preference reflects broader affordability trends, including relatively stable fuel prices, and a collective yearning for flexible, comfortable travel that accommodates luggage, pets, and family groups.

The road trip culture has been a hallmark of American travel for decades, and this year’s surge underscores its ongoing appeal. Scenic routes through deserts, countryside and coastal highways are once again filled with cars, RVs and caravans, as travellers make their way to favourite destinations or explore new horizons.

Air Travel Also Climbs in 2025

While road journeys account for the bulk of holiday travel, air travel is also experiencing a significant increase. Nearly 8 million travellers are expected to fly during the holiday period — a rise from the previous year — as passengers choose faster travel options to reach far‑flung destinations or reunite with family and friends.

Busy airports nationwide are preparing for high passenger volumes, with both domestic and regional flights witnessing heightened demand. Families, couples and solo explorers are taking advantage of extended holiday periods to visit bustling cities, tropical islands and cultural hubs.

Other States Driving the Record Travel Year

States such as Florida, Arizona, California, New York and Nevada have each played a vital role in America’s holiday travel upswing. Florida’s beaches and theme parks, Arizona’s desert landscapes and outdoor attractions, California’s varied terrain and entertainment hubs, New York’s cultural vibrancy, and Nevada’s entertainment‑rich offerings have collectively drawn millions of visitors.

These destinations not only contribute to the sheer volume of travellers but also fuel local economies through lodging, dining, attractions and retail spending. The synergistic effect of travel across these states reflects diverse traveller preferences — from beach retreats to urban experiences — and underpins a thriving tourism ecosystem.

Economic Impact of the Holiday Travel Boom

The surge in holiday travel in 2025 is not only a cultural phenomenon but also one with considerable economic implications. Travel spending fuels hospitality sectors, retail, transport services and local businesses across the states. Revenues generated from accommodations, dining, attractions and entertainment contribute to job creation and state tax income — vital components for regional economies, especially those dependent on seasonal demand.

Travel businesses, from large hotels to family‑owned tour operators, have reported healthy booking volumes and extended stays throughout the busy season, underscoring the economic multiplier effect of high visitor numbers.

What This Means for Communities and Future Travel Trends

The magnitude of travel in 2025 has presented both opportunities and operational challenges. With so many Americans on the move, infrastructure such as highways, airports, and public transport has been tested, foreshadowing growing demand for travel systems and technological enhancements to improve efficiency and traveller experience.

Community stakeholders and tourism authorities are also focusing on sustainability and quality of visitor experience. As travel continues to surge, emphasis on balancing visitor numbers with community needs and environmental stewardship has become increasingly important.

For countless families and individuals across the United States, the 2025 holiday period has been about more than just reaching a destination — it has been about rediscovering joy, connection and the simple pleasure of travel. Hawaii’s prominence in this remarkable travel wave speaks to the enduring appeal of its natural beauty and cultural richness. As holiday seasons end and travellers return home with stories, memories and renewed bonds, the spirit of exploration and togetherness reminds us all why travel matters most.