AAA anticipates record-high travel numbers for Thanksgiving, with over 2. 3 million Georgians traveling 50 miles or more, an increase from last year. Nationally, about 79. 9 million people are expected to travel, marking a 2% growth from last year’s figures. Economic improvement, lower inflation, and rising incomes are contributing factors, potentially increasing consumer spending by 4. 6% compared to the previous year. The AAA travel period for Thanksgiving has been extended from Tuesday, November 26 to Monday, December 2, allowing for better comparison with past years.

Travel by car will reach new highs across the U. S. and Georgia, with more than 2. 1 million Georgians drivingalmost 36,000 more than last year. While gas prices in Georgia currently average $2. 92, which is higher than last year, falling oil prices might bring costs below $3 nationally before the holiday starts. Cities like Atlanta and Los Angeles are among the busiest for car rentals, especially around Thanksgiving.

Air travel is set to reach new records nationally, with 5. 84 million flying domestically, a 2% rise from last year. Domestic airfares have edged up by 3%, yet international bookings have surged by 23% due to a decrease in international flight costs. Travelers using alternative transport modes such as buses, cruises, and trains are also up by 9% from last year, with cruising showing significant growth.

For road travel, the worst times to drive are expected on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, while Thanksgiving Day offers less traffic. Returning drivers are advised to start early on Sunday and be cautious of delays on Monday. Key metropolitan areas like Boston and New York should prepare for much higher congestion than normal.

Top Thanksgiving destinations feature sunny U. S. cities like Orlando and Miami, while internationally, Europe and the Caribbean are popular for their resorts and cruises. AAA suggests road travelers check their vehicles, use alternate routes for congestion, and avoid distractions. Air travelers are advised to book early flights, consider travel insurance for cancellations or delays, and pack essentials in carry-ons.

Lastly, AAA stresses the importance of road safety, urging drivers to “Move Over for Me,” ensuring the safety of roadside workers and travelers with disabled vehicles by slowing down and changing lanes safely when passing.