At least 34 million fewer Americans are expected to travel this holiday season compared to last year.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts 84.5 million Americans may travel from December 23 through January 3 – a decline of at least 29 percent.
“While Thanksgiving is traditionally spent gathering with friends and family, the year-end holidays are when Americans often venture out for longer, more elaborate vacations,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President, AAA Travel. “That will not be the case this year.”
Americans have been urged not to travel during this holiday season by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to reduce the risk of getting or spreading COVID-19.
For those who make the personal decision to travel, the AAA is urging travelers to understand the risks involved, seek the advice of a trusted travel advisor and refer to AAA’s COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Map and TripTik.AAA.com for the latest state and local travel restrictions, and to help determine which rest stops, gas stations, restaurants and hotels are open.
Most Americans who decide to travel will do so by car, with road trips accounting for 96 percent of holiday travel. Up to 81 million Americans will travel by car, a decline of at least 25 percent compared to last year.
