OCALA, FL (352today.com) – This Thanksgiving, Floridians are hitting the road, skies, and seas in unprecedented numbers. AAA – The Auto Club projects more than 4.5 million Floridians will travel 50 miles or more—an all-time high, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and setting a new record. Here’s what you need to know about this year’s travel trends:

Record-Breaking Travel Numbers
  • Florida’s numbers: Over 4.5 million travelers, up 112,000 from last year.
  • Nationally: Nearly 80 million Americans are expected to travel, a 2% increase from 2023 and a 2.5% jump from 2019.
  • Why the surge? Economic growth, strong incomes, and a 4.6% increase in consumer spending are driving record numbers.

“We expect to see record travel numbers across the board,” says Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA. “With more people taking to the roads, skies, rails, and sea; travelers should expect congested roads and longer lines at transportation terminals.”

Travel by Mode
  • Road trips: Over 4.1 million Floridians will drive, breaking last year’s record. Gas prices are holding steady, with Florida averages between $3.01 and $3.15 per gallon.
  • Air travel: Nationally, 5.84 million are flying, a 2% increase from last year. While domestic airfares are up 3%, international flights are 5% cheaper, leading to a 23% rise in international bookings.
  • Other modes: Nearly 2.3 million will travel by buses, trains, or cruises—a 9% increase from last year and an 18% jump from 2019.

“The demand for cruises has been red-hot this year,” Haas shares. “Domestic and international cruise bookings are up 20% compared to last Thanksgiving.”

Best and Worst Times to Travel
  • Worst times: Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.
  • Best times: Thanksgiving Day and early mornings for returns on Sunday or Monday.
AAA’s Road and Air Travel Tips

For drivers:

  • Get a vehicle inspection before your trip.
  • Use traffic apps to avoid delays.
  • Never drive distracted or impaired.

For flyers:

  • Check in early and monitor flight statuses via airline apps.
  • Book direct flights or allow extra time between connections.

With a record number of holiday travelers, AAA reminds drivers to “Move Over for Me,” slowing down and moving over for roadside emergencies.

“This Thanksgiving let’s ensure everyone makes it home safely,” expresses AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins.

Whether you’re taking a road trip, catching a flight, or cruising the seas, planning ahead will help you enjoy a stress-free holiday.