More than 43 million Americans are expected to travel more than 50 miles from home this Thanksgiving, an increase of just under 1 percent when compared to last year. AAA projected these figures, and if they hold steady this will be the fourth consecutive year holiday travel on Turkey Day has grown.
Of those who are planning to travel for Thanksgiving, more than 90 percent are going to do so by automobile. These individuals may be crossing less distance to get to their destinations, or they could be trying to make their trips more cost-effective by avoiding flights. These drivers are preparing by having vehicle maintenance done to their cars in order to have the most relaxed experience possible.
"Thanksgiving travel hit a decade low in 2008 when only 37.8 million Americans traveled," said AAA president Robert Darbelnet. "Since that year we have seen a steady increase in the number of travelers taking to the roads and skies for the holidays."
The millions of people affected by Hurricane Sandy may impact the final numbers, The Associated Press reports. Many neighborhoods, roads and vehicles across the Mid-Atlantic felt the effects of the storm, and those in areas still recovering may have changed their holiday plans.