While Thanksgiving dinner costs continue to climb, traveling for the holiday may be more affordable in 2024—at least by car. Over 71 million people are expected to hit the road, taking advantage of gas prices below $3 per gallon, a first since 2021, according to AAA. This brings welcome relief for travelers facing other rising costs.
Overall, nearly 80 million people are projected to travel during the holiday, marking a 1.7 million increase from last year. The surge includes extra travel days compared to prior years, with airports and highways expected to be busy.
Air travelers will face higher prices, with domestic airfares averaging $284, a 9% increase from 2023, and international flights rising 20%. Ticket costs are likely to spike closer to the holiday, and travelers could face delays due to air traffic controller shortages, especially in the Northeast. The busiest airports include Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, Los Angeles, and Chicago O’Hare.
Inflation has caused many travelers to adjust plans. Some are shortening trips, choosing budget-friendly accommodations, or engaging in less costly activities. Despite these changes, many families prioritize being together.
Amy Knebel Larsen of Sacramento, California, embodies this sentiment. She and her family are forgoing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner to attend her son’s BMX championship in Tulsa, Oklahoma. For Larsen, the holiday is about connection, not convention: “It’s just about being with the people you love,” she says.
