Holiday Travel Predictions for 2024

As autumn sets in and the temperatures start to drop, more people are gearing up for holiday travel. This year, AAA estimates about 79.9 million Americans will venture at least 80 miles from home for Thanksgiving, while around 119.3 million are expected to travel for Christmas.

Google has shared its predictions for holiday travel trends in 2025, indicating optimal times for booking flights and highlighting popular destinations.

For Thanksgiving travel, the cheapest flights are predicted to be found approximately 35 days before departure, with a range from 24 to 59 days being the best for prices. The report suggests that if you’re looking to fly right around Thanksgiving, booking in October could yield significant savings.

On the other hand, for Christmas, the report indicates that the lowest prices can be secured about 51 days in advance, with the best price range stretching from 32 to 73 days prior to departure. Booking is recommended from mid-October through mid-November.

If international travel is on your agenda, it’s advised to book early, ideally at least 49 days before your flight. Also interestingly, Sunday tends to be the priciest day for booking flights, while Tuesday offers the lowest rates.

Columbia, South Carolina, has emerged as the top destination for Thanksgiving travelers according to the data. Additionally, this year’s trending international spots include Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and Saint Lucia.

The report comments on the appeal of warmer climates, noting, “With temperatures expected to drop in many parts of the United States, it’s no surprise that travelers are choosing palm trees over fir trees.”

Finally, the average round-trip fare for domestic flights early in 2025 is projected to be around $397, a slight decrease of 0.4% compared to the previous year.