Record 81.8 Million to Travel for Thanksgiving Amid Storms

A record 81.8 million Americans are projected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the Thanksgiving holiday period from November 25 to December 1, marking a 1.6 million increase from last year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The surge, driven by family gatherings for the November 27 holiday, coincides with forecasts of multiple storm systems that could disrupt roads, flights, and rail travel across parts of the country.

The American Automobile Association estimates that 73 million people, or about 90 percent of travelers, will drive to their destinations, a figure that could rise if some opt out of air travel due to recent disruptions. An additional 6 million are expected to fly, up 2 percent from 2024, while 2.48 million will use buses, trains, or cruises. Popular domestic spots include Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami in Florida, with international favorites like Paris also drawing crowds. AAA travel vice president Stacey Barber noted that the holiday's emphasis on family reunions motivates people to navigate crowds and adjust plans for memorable experiences.

Weather forecasters warn of two major systems threatening the journey. The first, developing November...