AAA is now reporting that this year’s holiday season is gearing up to be the second busiest travel season nationwide.
With the record number of travelers, roads, airports and other means of transportation will be more crowded than normal.
This year, there will be over 115 million people traveling, which is the second-highest number on record.
More than 100 million people will be on the road while another 7.5 million will be traveling by air.
The remaining 4 million will either use a bus, train or even a cruise.
“Savvy travelers know that right after the holidays is the best time to book a cruise,” Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA, said. “That’s when cruise lines offer some of the best deals.”
AAA expects road travel in Florida to reach an all-time high, with more than 6.6 million Floridians traveling 50 miles or more from Dec. 23-Jan. 1.
The Auto Club Group expects nearly 218,000 more Florida travelers than last year (the previous record high), which does not include visitors from out of state.
Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA, said that despite the pressures of inflation, Americans are still willing to budget for travel.
“So finalize your travel plans now, anticipate longer lines and give yourself extra time to get to your destination,” Haas said.
Meanwhile, AAA is expecting almost 357,000 Floridians to take commercial flights, the second-highest air travel volume on record.
Average ticket prices are slightly lower than last year. According to AAA booking data, the average price for a roundtrip ticket to Orlando this holiday season is $613, down from $735 last year.
“AAA recommends booking flights as early as possible to ensure the best combination of price and availability,” Haas said. “Those waiting until the last minute could catch a discount but may have fewer options in terms of non-stop flights and seat availability. Whenever you book, it’s important to consider travel insurance.”
Haas said travel insurance will help with the inevitable winter weather delays.
“That’s another reason why we encourage travelers to get travel insurance, which offers protection for covered expenses associated with flight cancellations, lost luggage, and on flights with delays of as little as three hours,” Haas said.