CONNECTICUT, USA — AAA projects that over 839,000 Connecticut residents will travel 50 miles or more this holiday period, marking a 2.1% increase from last year.
The travel period spans from Tuesday, Nov. 26 to Monday, Dec. 2. This year, AAA’s forecast includes the Tuesday before and the Monday after Thanksgiving to better capture the full extent of holiday travel.
Across New England, over 3.5 million people are expected to travel, also up by 2.1% compared to last year. Nationally, 80 million Americans are projected to travel, an increase of 1.7 million compared to 2023 and 2 million more than in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Thanksgiving holiday is about celebrating with loved ones, and this is evident in the record number of people planning to travel,” said Tracy Noble, spokesperson for AAA Club Alliance. “Connecticut residents should plan ahead and prepare for delays, whether they are driving or flying, as both the roads and airports will be busy.”
Most travelers from Connecticut — 734,000 people, or 87.5% — will drive to their destinations, reflecting a 2.1% increase over last year. Regionally, nearly 3.1 million New England residents will hit the road, also up by 2.1% compared to 2023. Nationally, AAA predicts that 71.7 million Americans will travel by car, a 1.9% rise.
In Connecticut, drivers will enjoy slightly lower gas prices this year, with an average of $3.00 per gallon, about 40 cents less than last year. Gas prices peaked in May but have been steadily declining since then.
AAA estimates that more than 90,000 Connecticut residents will take to the skies this Thanksgiving, up 1.5% from last year. Nationally, air travel is expected to increase by 2.1%, with 5.84 million people flying to their destinations.
AAA urges travelers to reserve airport parking in advance and arrive early, as long TSA lines are expected. Travelers are also advised to avoid checking bags if possible, to make their trips more flexible.
Bus, train and cruise travel will see the largest year-over-year growth, with 13,000 Connecticut residents expected to use these modes of transportation, an increase of 4.6%. Across New England, 57,000 people will travel by bus, train or cruise, reflecting a similar increase. Nationally, nearly 2.3 million people will use alternative modes of transport, a 9% increase over 2023.
“Thanksgiving and travel are synonymous for many Americans,” Noble added. “This surge in travel across all modes reflects Americans’ continued desire for adventure and new experiences.”
According to INRIX, the worst times to travel by car are Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon. For those planning to drive on Thanksgiving Day, the roads are expected to be clear. Travelers returning home on Sunday should leave early, while Monday will see heavy traffic with a mix of holiday travelers and regular commuters.
“With a record number of travelers on the road, it's crucial to stay informed with traffic apps and local news alerts, especially in metropolitan areas like Boston and New York, where traffic is expected to be more than double usual levels,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX.
As the busiest travel holiday of the year approaches, Connecticut residents and travelers across New England are recommended to plan ahead and ensure a safe and efficient journey.
Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com
----
----
----
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.
