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Record Holiday Travel Rush Expected: AAA Predicts Highest Numbers Ever

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  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. -expected-aaa-predicts-highest-numbers-ever.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Sunday, December 28th 2025 at 22:41 GMT by WSAZ

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Holiday Travel Rush Expected: AAA Predicts Record Numbers on Roads This New Year’s

The roads are expected to be exceptionally busy this New Year’s holiday weekend as millions of Americans embark on trips to visit family, friends, or escape for a getaway. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), travel is projected to reach record highs, signaling a significant rebound from previous years and highlighting a strong desire for in-person connection despite ongoing economic uncertainties. The WSZA report, published December 29th, 2025, details these predictions and offers insights into potential challenges drivers can expect.

Record-Breaking Travel Volume:

AAA forecasts that over 119 million Americans will travel between December 23rd and January 1st, 2026 – the highest number ever recorded for this holiday period. This represents a substantial increase compared to last year's numbers and surpasses pre-pandemic levels. The vast majority of these travelers, approximately 97%, are expected to drive, contributing significantly to congestion on highways across the nation. Air travel is also projected to be robust, with over 7.2 million passengers flying – nearing 2019 levels. Bus and train travel will account for a smaller portion of overall holiday journeys.

Driving Conditions & Congestion Hotspots:

The WSZA report emphasizes that drivers should prepare for significant delays. AAA’s traffic data indicates that peak travel times are expected to be between December 30th and January 1st, with the worst congestion anticipated during afternoon hours. Specifically, major interstates like I-64 (which runs through West Virginia, as highlighted in a related WSZA article on local road conditions) and I-79 are predicted to experience heavy traffic volume. The report also notes that areas around popular destinations – ski resorts, beaches, and cities known for New Year's Eve celebrations – will likely be particularly congested.

The linked WSZA article about local road conditions in West Virginia provides further context. It details ongoing construction projects along I-64 near Charleston, which are expected to exacerbate delays. While these projects aim to improve infrastructure long-term, they currently create bottlenecks and reduce lane availability, adding to the frustration of holiday travelers. The report also mentions that weather conditions could significantly impact travel plans; snow or ice in mountainous regions like West Virginia’s can lead to road closures and further delays.

Gas Prices & Economic Factors:

While travel numbers are high, economic factors continue to play a role. Gas prices, though slightly lower than last year's peak, remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels. AAA’s gas price tracker (linked in the WSZA report) shows an average national price of around $3.85 per gallon for regular unleaded as of December 29th. This cost is a consideration for many drivers, potentially influencing travel distances and destination choices.

The WSZA article also touches on how inflation and broader economic concerns are impacting consumer behavior. While the desire to travel remains strong, some families may be opting for shorter trips or seeking more budget-friendly options to offset rising costs. This could lead to increased demand for alternative accommodations like vacation rentals and a shift towards less expensive destinations.

Safety Recommendations & Travel Tips:

Recognizing the potential for increased accidents due to heavy traffic and challenging weather, AAA is urging drivers to prioritize safety. The report highlights several key recommendations:

• Plan Ahead: Check traffic conditions before departing and allow extra time for travel. Utilize navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps to monitor real-time traffic updates and identify alternative routes.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure vehicles are properly maintained, including checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes. The WSZA report links to a checklist from AAA on vehicle preparation for winter driving.
• Avoid Distracted Driving: Put away cell phones and focus solely on the road.
• Be Aware of Weather Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts and adjust travel plans accordingly. If conditions are severe, consider postponing or canceling trips.
• Rest Stops & Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.

Impact on Local Communities:

The surge in holiday travelers is expected to have a significant economic impact on communities along popular travel routes. Increased tourism translates to higher revenue for local businesses – restaurants, hotels, and shops – providing a welcome boost during the traditionally slower winter months. However, it also places strain on infrastructure and resources, requiring careful planning and coordination from local authorities. The WSZA report mentions that local law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols to ensure safety and manage traffic flow.

Looking Ahead:

While the New Year’s holiday travel season is expected to be exceptionally busy, AAA remains optimistic about the overall outlook for travel in 2026. The continued desire for connection and experiences suggests that travel will remain a priority for many Americans, even as economic conditions evolve. However, drivers are strongly advised to plan ahead, prioritize safety, and prepare for potential delays on their journeys this holiday weekend.

This article provides a comprehensive summary of the WSZA report, incorporating details from linked content and expanding upon key points to provide context and further insights into the expected holiday travel rush.