Holiday Travel Records: One Hundred And Twenty Two Million Americans on the Move as Gas Prices Plummet

Published on December 27, 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, a sense of nostalgic normalcy has returned to the American landscape, but with a record-breaking twist. According to the latest AAA projections, the holiday travel season has reached a historic zenith, with 122.4 million Americans journeying at least 50 miles from home between December 20 and January 1.

This surge—a 2.2% increase over the previous 2024 record—signals a robust return of consumer confidence, fueled largely by a welcome “holiday gift” at the gas pump: the lowest fuel prices in four years.

Despite the rise of high-speed digital connections, the physical “home for the holidays” remains an unbreakable American tradition. This year, 109.5 million people—nearly 90% of all travelers—have chosen the open road.

The primary driver for this automotive surge is the price of regular unleaded gasoline. For the first time since May 2021, the national average has dipped below the psychological barrier of $3.00 per gallon, settling around $2.89 in late December. For a family of four driving from Chicago to Orlando, these savings translate into extra holiday spending money for dinners, gifts, and experiences.

The “8 Million Club”: A Milestone in the Skies

While the roads are crowded, the skies are witnessing their own history. For the first time ever, AAA projects that domestic air travel will exceed 8 million passengers during the 13-day holiday window.

Interestingly, this 2.3% increase in flying comes despite a 7% rise in domestic ticket prices, with roundtrip fares averaging nearly $900. This suggests that travelers are prioritizing time and convenience over cost, willing to pay a premium to bypass the traffic and maximize their time with loved ones.

The Human Element: Why We Travel in 2025

Beyond the staggering statistics lies a deeper human story. “Year-end travel is a mix of family road trips, friend getaways, and tropical vacations,” says Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel.

In 2025, the motivation isn’t just about the destination; it’s about reclaiming the holiday spirit. After years of economic uncertainty, the stabilization of the travel market has allowed people to plan with confidence. Whether it’s a ski trip to the Rockies or a flight to Florida’s sun-soaked beaches, Americans are eager to close out 2025 with adventure.

Navigating the Chaos: Survival Tips

With 122 million people on the move, “patience” is the most important item in any suitcase.

• The Return Rush: December 26 and 27 are traditionally the heaviest return-travel days. To avoid the worst of the gridlock, traffic experts at INRIX recommend leaving before 8:00 AM or after 8:00 PM.
• The Airport Buffer: With record numbers in the terminals, the standard two-hour rule has been unofficially upgraded. AAA now suggests arriving two and a half hours early for domestic flights to accommodate the strain on security checkpoints and de-icing operations.
• Roadside Readiness: During last year’s holiday window, AAA responded to over 860,000 calls for help. Ensure your tires, battery, and fluid levels are checked before you hit the highway to avoid becoming a statistic.

A Bright Economic Outlook

The ripple effect of this travel boom is being felt across the hospitality sector. Domestic hotel stays have seen a 13% increase in average costs, yet occupancy remains high. Small businesses in “stopover towns” along major interstates like I-95 and I-75 are seeing a significant boost in foot traffic, proving that when Americans travel, the entire economy moves with them.