Travel Surge: Navigating the Busiest Thanksgiving Since 2000

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Travellers queue up to pass through the south security checkpoint at Denver International Airport, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, in Denver. Despite inflation and memories of past holiday travel meltdowns, millions of people are expected to hit airports and highways in record numbers over the Thanksgiving Day break. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
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According to the American Auto Association, 55.4 million Americans are expected to travel this holiday season. That’s a 2.3 percent increase from last year, making it the third highest since 2000.

Now, most Americans will be reaching their destination by car. That’s an anticipated 49.1 million people, marking a 1.7 percent increase from 2022.

The good news is gas prices are trending lower with an average of $3.58. Also, by air, those numbers are going up with 4.7 million people in the friendly skies, that’s a 6.6 percent increase from last year and the highest since 2005.

The busiest days? The Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, with Sunday and Monday being popular days to return.

Cruises, busses, and trains aren’t far behind, showing an 11 percent increase over last year.

As millions gear up to travel, one question looms: are you ready for the busiest Thanksgiving travel season in nearly two decades?


Click play to listen to the report from AURN White House Correspondent Ebony McMorris. For more news, follow @E_N_McMorris & @aurnonline.

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