Lexington, KY, December 23, 2025
The upcoming holiday travel season is expected to be the busiest on record, with over 122 million Americans traveling at least 50 miles from home. This marks a 2.2% increase from the previous year, with most travelers opting for road trips. Gas prices below $3 per gallon are encouraging car travel, while air travel is also on the rise, with over 8 million Americans projected to fly. Travelers are advised to plan ahead amid the increased traffic and potential delays.
LEXINGTON, Ky. — The 2025 holiday travel season is witnessing unprecedented numbers, with over 122 million Americans expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between December 20 and January 1. This marks a 2.2% increase from the previous year’s record of 119.7 million travelers.
Travel Trends and Projections
Road Travel Dominates
The majority of holiday travelers, approximately 109.5 million, are anticipated to drive to their destinations. This preference is largely due to the convenience and cost-effectiveness of road travel. Notably, gas prices have fallen below $3 per gallon for the first time in four years, further encouraging road trips.
Air Travel on the Rise
Air travel is also experiencing a surge, with over 8 million Americans expected to fly domestically during this period. This is the first time domestic air travelers have exceeded 8 million during the year-end period. However, travelers should be prepared for higher costs, as round-trip domestic flights are averaging nearly $900, a 7% increase from last year.
Other Modes of Transportation
Alternative travel modes, including buses, trains, and cruises, are projected to increase by 9%, totaling 4.9 million travelers. The demand for cruises, in particular, has surged by 25% since 2019, reflecting a strong post-pandemic recovery in this sector.
Regional Highlights
North Carolina
In North Carolina, approximately 3.7 million residents are expected to travel between December 20 and January 1, marking a 2.9% rise from last year. Of these, 3.3 million will travel by car, 200,184 by air, and 191,535 using other transportation methods.
Miami International Airport
Miami International Airport is preparing for a record-breaking surge in passenger traffic, expecting to handle 3.3 million travelers during the upcoming Christmas and winter holiday season. Peak travel days are projected to be December 20, 26, 27, and January 2 and 3, with over 190,000 daily passengers on those days.
Travel Tips
Travelers are advised to plan ahead, check their routes, and allow extra time for their journeys. With record numbers of people navigating highways and terminals, delays are likely. Whether on the road or in the air, patience and preparation are key to a smooth holiday travel experience.
Weather Considerations
In Lexington, Kentucky, travelers can expect cloudy conditions with a chance of showers on Tuesday, December 23. The high temperature is forecasted to be 61°F (16°C), with a low of 42°F (6°C). It’s advisable to check local weather updates and plan accordingly.
Conclusion
The 2025 holiday travel season is set to be the busiest on record, with millions of Americans taking to the roads and skies to celebrate the season. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can navigate the increased traffic and enjoy a safe and festive holiday season.
FAQ
What is the projected number of Americans traveling during the 2025 holiday season?
Over 122 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between December 20 and January 1, marking a 2.2% increase from the previous year’s record.
How many travelers are expected to drive to their destinations?
Approximately 109.5 million travelers are anticipated to drive, accounting for 89% of all holiday travelers.
What is the average cost of a round-trip domestic flight this holiday season?
Round-trip domestic flights are averaging nearly $900, a 7% increase from last year.
Which state is expecting the highest number of travelers during the holiday season?
North Carolina is expecting approximately 3.7 million residents to travel between December 20 and January 1, marking a 2.9% rise from last year.
What is the weather forecast for Lexington, Kentucky, on December 23?
Lexington is expected to have cloudy conditions with a chance of showers, a high of 61°F (16°C), and a low of 42°F (6°C).
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| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Projected Travelers | Over 122 million Americans traveling at least 50 miles from home between December 20 and January 1, a 2.2% increase from last year. |
| Road Travel | Approximately 109.5 million travelers expected to drive, accounting for 89% of all holiday travelers. Gas prices have fallen below $3 per gallon for the first time in four years. |
| Air Travel | Over 8 million Americans expected to fly domestically, with round-trip domestic flights averaging nearly $900, a 7% increase from last year. |
| Other Transportation | Alternative modes, including buses, trains, and cruises, projected to increase by 9%, totaling 4.9 million travelers. Cruise demand has surged by 25% since 2019. |
| North Carolina | Approximately 3.7 million residents expected to travel between December 20 and January 1, marking a 2.9% rise from last year. |
| Miami International Airport | Preparing for a record-breaking surge, expecting to handle 3.3 million travelers during the holiday season, with peak travel days on December 20, 26, 27, and January 2 and 3. |
| Weather in Lexington, KY | Cloudy conditions with a chance of showers on December 23, high of 61°F (16°C), low of 42°F (6°C). Travelers should check local weather updates and plan accordingly. |
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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
