Record 45.1 Million Americans to Travel Over Memorial Day Weekend
The American Automobile Association (AAA) has announced that an estimated 45.1 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, marking a 4% increase compared to last year. This figure not only sets a new all-time record for the holiday period but also signals a powerful start to the 2025 summer travel season.
(Sources: Travel And Tour World, AAA Newsroom, Skift)
Of the total travelers, approximately 3.61 million are expected to take to the skies, a figure that exceeds pre-pandemic air travel levels by 12%. This uptick reflects a strong rebound in the airline industry, with carriers preparing for what could be one of the busiest summer seasons in recent memory.
Meanwhile, road trips remain the preferred mode of travel for most Americans, with AAA projecting nearly 38.4 million people will travel by car, thanks in part to lower gas prices and improved weather forecasts across much of the country. Travel by bus, train, and cruise is also on the rise, with a projected 5.5% increase from last year.
Experts attribute this travel surge to a combination of factors: pent-up demand, rising consumer confidence, and a strong desire to disconnect and enjoy leisure time with friends and family. Many travelers are also looking to take advantage of long-weekend getaways before prices peak during the high summer months.
The data suggests that Americans are not only willing to spend more on travel in 2025, but they’re also prioritizing experiences over material goods, a trend that continues to shape the tourism economy. Travel agencies and hospitality providers are responding by offering more flexible packages, last-minute deals, and experience-driven itineraries.
With record-breaking movement expected, authorities are advising travelers to plan ahead, arrive early, and stay informed about traffic and airport conditions. Memorial Day 2025 may well set the tone for one of the busiest travel years in recent U.S. history.
