It’s that time of the year. Festive decorations line the streets, every radio station is hijacked by the sounds of the season, malls are bursting at the seams and millions of people are traveling to see loved ones. To be exact, more than 103 million Americans will travel during the year-end holidays, according to AAA. The record-breaking number of travelers represents a 1.5 percent increase, or 1.5 million more people traveling, compared with last year. This increase is expected despite one fewer travel day this season, as both Christmas and New Year’s Day fall on a weekend.
“’Tis the season for holiday travel, and this year more Americans will travel to celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year than ever before,” said Marshall Doney, president and CEO, AAA. “Rising incomes and continued low gas prices should make for a joyous holiday travel season.”
Compared to last year, U.S. drivers saved more than $27 billion at the gas pumps this year, making the decision to visit out-of-town family members a little easier. A majority of travelers — 93.6 percent — will drive to their destinations this holiday season, a 1.5 percent increase over last year.
Air travel is expected to increase by 2.5 percent, with more than 6 million Americans flying to their holiday destinations. Driving factors for these high travel numbers are attributed to increased consumer spending as a result of improvements in the labor market and rising wages, lower gas prices and increased consumer optimism.
Where are people going? The results of a recent AAA survey show warm weather destinations at the top of the list for holiday destinations, with Las Vegas as the No. 1 destination, followed by Orlando; New York City; San Diego; and Anaheim, Calif.
Whether you’re traveling by car, plane or train, traveling to the beach or to the mountains, or staying in the comfort of your own homes, Global Traveler wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.
What are your year-end travel plans? Email us and let us know. Please include your full name and location with your email.
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