Thanksgiving travel will hit a new high in 2024, with AAA forecasting that 79.9 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home, setting a new record. This marks an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year and 2 million more than in 2019. For the first time, AAA’s forecast includes the Tuesday before and the Monday after Thanksgiving to better capture the full scope of holiday travel.

Driving remains the most popular choice, with 71.7 million people expected to take to the road. This represents a rise of 1.3 million travelers compared to 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Lower gas prices offer some relief, with the national average likely to dip below $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021. Drivers will find the best prices in regions east of the Rockies, where gas costs will range from $2.25 to $2.50 per gallon. However, traffic will be heavy, especially in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, with Wednesday predicted to be the busiest travel day. Car rental demand will spike, especially in cities like Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Miami. Wednesday will see the busiest car rental pick-up, while rental returns will peak the Monday and Tuesday following the holiday.

Air travel will also experience a surge, with 5.84 million people expected to fly domestically, marking an 11% increase from 2019. Domestic flight prices will rise by 3% compared to last year, while international flight bookings will jump by 23%, driven by a 5% drop in international airfare. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving and Sunday, Dec. 1, will see the busiest days for airlines.

Travel by other modes, including buses, trains, and cruises, will reach 2.3 million, an 18% increase from 2019. The cruise industry remains in high demand, with bookings up 20% from last Thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving will feature one of the busiest travel periods on record, as millions of Americans take to the roads, skies, and seas to reconnect with loved ones. Travelers should expect heavy congestion, high demand for car rentals, and elevated hotel rates, particularly in cities like New York, where prices peak due to events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.