Chaos in the US for Thanksgiving? The surprising number of people who will travel
Are we expecting a chaotic Thanksgiving? Here's what's in store for next week, given the number of travelers moving for the holiday.
2024-11-24T23:00:34+00:00
- Thanksgiving Approaches Amid Warnings of Nationwide Chaos
- An ‘excessive’ number of travelers is expected
- Americans are advised to take precautions next week
Chaos at airports, highways, and other transportation hubs is expected to grip the U.S. during Thanksgiving week.
According to AAA, an estimated 79.9 million travelers will journey 50 miles or more to return home during the Thanksgiving period.
For the first time, AAA forecasts the chaos will extend from the Tuesday before the holiday through the Monday following the celebration.
As reported by Newsroom, this year’s projected number of travelers is around 80 million, nearly 2 million more than in 2023.
Will Thanksgiving Cause Chaos in the U.S.?
Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel, stated that Thanksgiving is the busiest travel time of the year, and this year will be chaotic across all modes of transportation.
By car, a record 71.1 million travelers are expected, 1.3 million more than in 2023.
Gas prices are lower than last year, with an expected average of under $3 per gallon, depending on the state.
As for car rentals, the cities expected to face the highest demand are Atlanta, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, and Phoenix.
Overcrowded Airports?
Those planning to travel next week during Thanksgiving will face congestion and chaos in air travel, with nearly 6 million people flying.
Domestic flight prices will increase by up to 3% compared to normal, while international demand has surged by 23%.
For buses, cruises, and trains, an estimated 2.3 million people are expected to travel during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Travelers are advised to consider these figures, plan ahead, and check the weather forecast for their area.


