Record-Breaking Over 122 Million Americans Hit the Road, Skies, and Seas for the Year-End Holidays as Gas Prices Dip and Travel Surge Hits Major U.S. Cities from New York to Los Angeles, Nashville to Miami

Published on December 26, 2025

Over 122 million Americans are set to hit the road, skies, and seas for the year-end holidays, marking a record-breaking surge in travel this season. As gas prices dip, more families are opting for road trips, while air travel and cruises are also seeing significant growth. From New York to Los Angeles, and Nashville to Miami, major U.S. cities are bracing for an influx of travelers. This increase reflects a 2.2% jump from last year, showing that Americans are eager to spend the holidays with loved ones despite ongoing global uncertainties. Gas prices falling below $3.00 per gallon have provided an added incentive for road travel, making it an attractive option for many. With more people traveling by car, plane, and ship, the holiday season is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most exciting in recent years.

Gas Prices and Economic Conditions Fuel Road Travel Surge

A key contributing factor to this year’s travel boom is the dip in gas prices. AAA reports that nearly 90% of all travelers this holiday season will be hitting the road, benefiting from a decrease in fuel costs, with prices falling below $3.00 per gallon in many areas. This offers an added incentive for people to opt for road trips rather than alternative modes of transportation. With families planning long drives and cross-country excursions, many travelers will likely benefit from cost-effective travel options.

This surge in road travel is also a direct reflection of the ongoing trend towards domestic exploration. In addition to cheaper fuel prices, the safety and flexibility of driving offer peace of mind, especially as the holiday season brings a blend of weather challenges and unpredictable travel conditions.

Air Travel and Alternative Transportation Also on the Rise

While road travel remains the dominant form of transportation, air travel is also on the rise, with more Americans choosing to fly to their holiday destinations. Airlines have reported an uptick in bookings, reflecting a broader trend of confidence in air travel following a period of uncertainty.

This growth isn’t limited to just airlines; alternative modes of transportation such as buses, trains, and even cruises are seeing an uptick in usage. Travelers are increasingly diversifying their methods of getting to their destinations, looking for both adventure and comfort as they make their way to family gatherings, winter getaways, or vacation hotspots.

The increased interest in cruising is noteworthy, as many travelers are opting for cruise vacations due to their all-inclusive nature, which provides the convenience of multiple destinations with the added bonus of holiday festivities aboard. This reflects a shift in how people are choosing to travel—an experience that offers both relaxation and the joy of celebrating the season on the open seas.

Travel Trends in the East South Central Region

The East South Central region, which includes Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, is expected to see 6.8 million travelers this holiday season, marking a 1% increase compared to last year. This growth aligns with the overall upward trend in travel across the country, as families from all regions make plans to enjoy the season together.

Many of these travelers are expected to drive to their destinations, enjoying the scenic drives and accessible roadways that make this region a favourite for holiday road trips. With popular attractions such as the Great Smoky Mountains, Nashville’s music scene, and the festive charm of New Orleans, the East South Central region offers a unique combination of winter destinations for travelers.

Impaired Driving Prevention and Safety Reminders

As the roads fill up with holiday travelers, AAA and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) are working to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and both organizations are urging drivers to make responsible decisions to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

According to AAA officials, planning a safe ride home is essential for anyone attending holiday parties or gatherings that involve alcohol. With more vehicles on the road, the risks of accidents and traffic fatalities increase, and the holiday period is one of the most dangerous times for driving under the influence. In light of this, AAA encourages travelers to arrange for a designated driver, take public transportation, or use ride-sharing services as part of a broader effort to reduce impaired driving incidents.

A rise in holiday travel also correlates with an increase in traffic congestion, particularly around major cities and popular vacation spots. For those planning to drive, AAA suggests taking extra precautions, such as checking vehicle maintenance, preparing for winter weather conditions, and ensuring that emergency kits are in the car.

Preparing for a Safe Holiday Journey

For many, the holiday season is synonymous with family time, festive celebrations, and road trips. However, it’s important to be aware of potential challenges such as unexpected delays, inclement weather, and heightened traffic. As the year’s travel numbers soar to new heights, it’s critical for all travelers to take necessary safety measures, particularly as adverse weather conditions can often cause disruptions in travel plans.

What Travelers Should Expect: Delays, Congestion, and More

With millions of Americans on the move, congestion at major airports, bus terminals, and train stations is expected to be high. Passengers should prepare for long lines, potential delays, and crowded terminals as they make their way to flights or buses. This is especially true in cities that are popular hubs for holiday travel, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

For road travelers, heavy traffic is a certainty, particularly along popular routes like I-95, I-10, and I-40, which are key highways connecting major cities. AAA suggests that travelers plan ahead by checking traffic patterns and weather forecasts before embarking on long trips, and they encourage early departures to avoid delays.

The Future of Holiday Travel

Looking ahead, the continued growth of holiday travel reflects a broader recovery within the tourism and transportation sectors. While global challenges such as inflation and supply chain disruptions have influenced some areas of the travel industry, Americans continue to prioritize the connections and experiences that the holiday season brings.

For the foreseeable future, we can expect more people to venture out during the holidays as road trips remain a quintessential part of American culture. However, the rise in air travel and interest in alternative transportation will likely continue to shape the future of seasonal travel, as more options become available for those seeking the ultimate holiday experience.

In conclusion, with gas prices stabilizing and transportation options expanding, the 2025 year-end holiday period is poised to be one for the books. Whether hitting the roads, boarding planes, or setting sail on a cruise, millions of Americans are prepared to make this holiday season memorable with their loved ones. The travel surge may be a record breaker, but with adequate planning and safety in mind, travelers will be ready for an exciting and smooth journey to their festive destinations.

Source: AAA