TEXAS — Turkey Day is approaching quickly and AAA says travel this Thanksgiving will rebound to almost pre-pandemic levels.
About 53.4 million people are expected to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday, and specifically, nearly 4 million Texans are predicted to move around this season. This is a 12% increase from 2020 and only falls short of 2019 numbers by 6%. AAA also adds that more Texans will be traveling via bus, trains and cruises that have resumed service.
“This Thanksgiving roadways, airports and cruise ports will be much busier than last year,” said Kent Livesay, vice president and general manager, AAA Texas. “An increasing number of vaccinated people as well as new safety and health guidelines have helped to build consumer confidence and put people more at ease to start traveling again.”
Air travels for Texans this Thanksgiving is up 77% from last year, and travel by car is up 8% from 2020.
“International travel re-opening will allow people to reconnect with friends and family and explore new places, while also giving a much-needed boost to the economy,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “But it also means airports will be busier than we’ve seen, so travelers must plan for longer lines and extra time for TSA checks.”
AAA encourages anyone traveling this holiday season to adhere to CDC guidelines for the safest and healthiest way to see friends and family.
This year will also be the highest single-year increase in Thanksgiving travelers since 2005 and AAA wants you to plan ahead. Be proactive in booking flights, cars rentals and accommodations. Roads and airports will be busy so plan ahead and give yourself extra time to arrive at places.
If you are hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is ready. AAA suggests getting an inspection to make sure all parts are functioning as they should, including your brakes, tires, fluid levels and battery.
Safe travel equals smart travel, according to AAA, and they encourage you to refer to CDC guidelines for traveling and COVID-19 prevention tips.