Texas Braces for a Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Rush Nearly Over Ten Million Texans Hit the Road and Skies for Christmas and New Year!

Published on December 12, 2025

As the festive season draws near, Texans are preparing for one of the busiest holiday travel periods in recent history. Nearly 10 million residents are expected to travel during the Christmas and New Year holidays, according to estimates from AAA Texas and other government sources. With improved airline capacity, affordable fuel prices, and an increase in family reunions, 2025 promises to be a record-breaking year for travel in the Lone Star State.

The anticipated surge in travelers reflects growing consumer confidence and the desire for a holiday season free from the disruptions of recent years. While many Texans will take to the highways, a significant number will also be flying out of major Texas airports, contributing to the expected spike in travel activity.

AAA Texas forecasts that around 9.8 million Texans will journey to family gatherings or holiday destinations between December 23 and January 2, marking an increase of 4 to 7% over last year’s travel numbers. The steady rise in travel demand is being fueled by several factors, including stable fuel prices and increased airline capacity from major hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and Austin.

A Surge in Road Travel and Air Travel in Texas

The majority of travelers will choose the open road this year, with 75% of Texans planning to drive to their destinations. This aligns with national trends, where driving remains the preferred mode of transport for those traveling short distances. Texas residents are set to experience heavy traffic along well-known corridors like I-35, which runs from the Mexican border to the heart of the state, and I-10, a major east-west route.

However, air travel is also expected to see significant increases. Texas airports, including Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) in Houston, and Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS), are bracing for record passenger numbers. With flights filling up quickly, travelers are being advised to arrive early—at least two hours before their domestic flights and three hours for international departures.

Holiday Congestion in Texas: A Surge in Traffic and Flight Delays Expected

State officials are preparing for an uptick in congestion, particularly on routes out of Texas’ major urban centers. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), travelers should plan for delays along primary interstates beginning on Christmas Eve and continuing through New Year’s Eve. In response to expected heavy traffic, TxDOT is ramping up patrols and offering real-time traffic updates through apps and state-issued alerts.

“With the increase in traffic, it’s important to plan ahead and consider alternative routes,” said Emily Rodriguez, a TxDOT spokesperson. “Our goal is to ensure that residents and visitors can reach their destinations safely while minimizing disruptions.” Public safety is a priority, and Texas law enforcement will be on the lookout for incidents and accidents, working to reduce delays wherever possible.

A Boost to Local Economies Across Texas

The increase in holiday travelers also has a positive economic impact on local economies. Retailers, restaurants, and hotels across the state are gearing up for the influx of visitors. Popular destinations like San Antonio, the Texas Hill Country, and Corpus Christi are seeing a surge in hotel bookings. The local hospitality sector is expecting high demand, with many establishments offering seasonal promotions to attract visitors.

“The holiday season is always a busy time for businesses in Texas,” said one hotel manager in San Antonio’s River Walk area. “We’re looking forward to welcoming travelers from all over the state, and even from out of state, who want to experience the beauty of the River Walk and other iconic Texas landmarks.”

Tips for Holiday Travelers in Texas

With travel reaching near-record levels, experts are offering advice for Texans heading out of town. Road travelers are encouraged to pack emergency supplies, including food, water, and blankets, especially if traveling through more rural areas where amenities may be sparse. Furthermore, it’s important to check weather forecasts regularly, as snowstorms in other parts of the country, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast, could impact flight schedules.

AAA Texas also recommends that travelers check their flight statuses regularly, as some weather conditions may cause cascading delays across the nation. For those driving, real-time traffic information provided through GPS apps will be invaluable in avoiding congested areas.

A Joyous End to 2025: Safe Travels for Texans

As Texas braces for what could be its busiest holiday travel season in years, residents are also looking forward to the festive season with a sense of optimism. After years of pandemic disruptions, this holiday travel period offers a chance for families to reunite and spend quality time together.

“The holidays are about family, tradition, and reconnecting with loved ones,” said one Texas resident. “Whether it’s by car or by air, we’re all excited to make up for lost time and celebrate the season with those who matter most.”

As travelers prepare for their journeys, one thing is clear: the 2025 holiday season will be one to remember, with Texans making lasting memories across the state and beyond.