New York, November 20, 2025. As Thanksgiving approaches, the United States is preparing for an unprecedented surge in travel activity, with millions of Americans expected to hit the road, skies, and public transit to reunite with family and friends. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the number of travelers surpasses 81.8 million, a record figure that reflects a combination of long-standing holiday traditions and an increase in the population. The AAA forecasts that 73 million of these travelers will opt for the car, a significant jump from previous years. This figure has been influenced by recent trends in flight cancellations, which have led some to reconsider air travel and choose the more predictable option of driving instead.
Amid the surge in travel, there has been a notable shift in the transportation industry. The auto club reports that domestic car rentals are now 15% cheaper compared to the previous Thanksgiving, making the road trip a more financially accessible option for many families. In addition, AAA has partnered with Hertz to predict that Wednesday will be the busiest day for car rental pickups, particularly in key metropolitan areas such as Orlando, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Newark. These cities are expected to face the highest demand, requiring both rental agencies and travel services to manage increased customer interactions and resource planning.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also preparing for an expected surge in air travel, with the agency projecting this Thanksgiving to be the busiest in 15 years. Over 360,000 flights have been scheduled across the week, with the peak demand anticipated on November 25 as more than 52,000 flights are expected to operate within the country. The FAA states that ‘solid staffing’ is in place to help manage the expected traffic, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safety and efficiency across the nation’s airspace. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford has expressed optimism about the system’s readiness, stating, ‘Thanks to the dedication of our air traffic controllers and every FAA employee, we are ready for the holiday rush and take pride in helping travelers reach their friends and families during this important time of year.’ He further highlighted the significance of the FAA’s role in ensuring safe and efficient travel, noting the team’s unwavering commitment to the mission.
Gas prices are also expected to remain relatively stable as both 2024 and 2025 have recorded the lowest Thanksgiving gas prices since the pandemic, with a national average of $3.02 per gallon. While this is a positive development for travelers, the cost of fuel remains a concern for families planning to make long road trips, as the price could still impact the overall cost of the holiday. Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented a new policy that may charge passengers who do not carry acceptable identification at security checkpoints, potentially leading to additional expenses for travelers who are either unprepared or unable to provide the necessary documentation.
As the holiday approaches, agencies such as AAA and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) are reminding travelers of the dangers associated with driving while impaired. These organizations are urging everyone to consider alternative transportation options, such as designated drivers, rideshare services, or public transit, to ensure the safety of all on the road. The message of responsible travel has been reinforced by the ‘Golden Age of Travel’ campaign launched by the Department of Transportation, which encourages Americans to maintain a respectful and harmonious atmosphere during travel, promoting civility and consideration for one another. The campaign, spearheaded by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, emphasizes that the joy and tradition of travel should be centered on connection rather than disruption.
With so many factors influencing the travel plans of millions of Americans, Thanksgiving is set to be not only a time for family reunions but also a significant test for the nation’s transportation systems, public safety initiatives, and the collective behavior of travelers. As agencies and organizations across the country work to ensure that the holiday is as smooth and safe as possible, the challenge lies in balancing the logistical demands of mass movement with the desire for a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience for all.