US Holiday Travel to Break Records in 2025, Boosting Tourism Nationwide

Published on December 23, 2025

As the year-end holidays approach, the United States is bracing for an unprecedented surge in travel, with an estimated 122.4 million Americans expected to hit the roads, skies, and rails. This marks a significant milestone in the nation’s tourism sector, surpassing previous records and highlighting the resilience of domestic travel. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports a 2.2% increase over 2024‘s record-breaking holiday travel figures, signalling a robust demand for both leisure and family travel. This increase is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the tourism industry, fueling economic growth in key sectors like accommodation, retail, and transportation.

The holiday season is a time when millions of people across the country embark on family reunions, leisure trips, and holiday getaways. With many people returning to pre-pandemic travel habits, there’s an overwhelming sense of optimism in the tourism industry. Officials predict that 109.5 million people will take to the roads, while nearly 8.03 million people are expected to fly. This dynamic blend of travel modes – from road trips to domestic air travel – presents both challenges and opportunities for the tourism sector.

Road travel remains the dominant mode of transportation, as many people opt for the convenience and flexibility of driving during the holidays. The lower gas prices compared to recent years are making road trips more affordable and appealing for families and friends. With holiday hotspots such as national parks, ski resorts, and metropolitan cities in high demand, these locations will see increased visitor numbers. Major highways and regional routes are expected to see heavy traffic, especially during peak days like December 23rd and December 30th, when travelers rush to reach their destinations.

Air travel is also seeing a significant uptick, with airlines ramping up their operations to accommodate the increased number of passengers. TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has prepared for record numbers of travelers at major airports, with several hubs, including Los Angeles International (LAX), New York’s JFK, and Chicago O’Hare, seeing the highest volumes of foot traffic. In particular, domestic flight bookings are reaching new heights, reflecting a steady rebound in the airline industry following disruptions caused by the pandemic. For tourism boards in key cities and states, this presents an exciting opportunity to showcase local attractions and enhance visitors’ experiences.

The tourism industry stands to gain significantly from this holiday travel boom. Increased visitation to destinations has a positive impact on local businesses, with a surge in demand for hotels, resorts, restaurants, and entertainment. Local tourism boards are capitalizing on the influx of travelers by offering tailored experiences, including holiday events, special promotions, and festive packages that encourage visitors to extend their stays and explore beyond the usual attractions.

Despite the expected surge in travel, challenges do remain. Both weather disruptions and the sheer volume of travelers may cause delays, particularly in regions prone to winter storms. Travel experts are advising travelers to plan ahead, with tips on early bookings, flexible itineraries, and precautionary measures to mitigate delays. Authorities also suggest that visitors arrive at least two hours before their scheduled flight to avoid missing out due to heightened security checks and longer processing times at airports.

In addition to the challenges posed by increased travel volume, there’s a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism practices. As millions of people flock to popular destinations, the tourism sector is being called upon to balance the economic benefits of increased visitation with environmental and community impacts. Tourism boards across the country are urging travelers to respect local communities, embrace responsible tourism, and minimize their carbon footprint during their trips. Strategies like eco-tourism and local experiences are becoming more popular among conscious travelers who want to make a positive contribution to the places they visit.

Overall, the record-breaking holiday travel forecast for 2025 is a clear indication of the continued strength of the U.S. tourism sector. As Americans travel far and wide to celebrate the season, the ripple effects on local economies and tourism businesses will be felt across the nation. From bustling city streets to quiet mountain retreats, the country’s diverse attractions are ready to welcome travelers with open arms, ensuring that the holiday season remains a pivotal time for tourism and local economic growth.