Albuquerque, NM — AAA New Mexico projects 8.9 million Mountain Region residents will travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holiday period, marking a 2.1% increase over last year. While slightly below the 2019 record, this year’s forecast surpasses 2024’s 8.7 million travelers.
Nationally, AAA expects 122.4 million Americans to travel—making this the busiest holiday season on record. The 13-day travel period runs from Saturday, Dec. 20 through Thursday, Jan. 1.
How People Are Traveling
- By Car:
AAA estimates 109.5 million Americans will drive, including 7.9 million Mountain Region residents, accounting for 89% of total travel. - By Air:
Air travel is also up, with 8 million Americans expected to fly—708,000 from the Mountain Region. Domestic roundtrip flights average nearly $900, about 7% higher than last year.
Drivers will see relief at the pump. For the first time in four years, the national average has dropped below $3 per gallon, and prices could continue falling as 2025 ends.
AAA booking data shows Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami leading domestic travel, while Cancun, Punta Cana, and Cozumel top international picks.
Expect heavy traffic the weekend before Christmas and on Friday, Dec. 26. Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are typically lighter, but weather and crashes can cause delays.
