More Americans will travel out of town for Thanksgiving this year than in 2015, according to a new report from AAA.
The organization projects a 1.9 percent increase in travelers for the holiday travel period, which runs from November 23 to November 27. In all, 48.7 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more.
AAA attributes the increase in travel to changes in gasoline prices and in the overall economy. Wages are rising and consumers are more likely to spend money. Lower gas prices have saved U.S. drivers more than $28 billion so far compared to last year, allowing some families to take holiday trips they may not have been able to take before.
While Thanksgiving gas prices are at their second-lowest since 2008, airfares are up about 21 percent this holiday. AAA reports the average round-trip ticket for the 40 most popular domestic routes is $205.
The west coast appears to be a popular destination for 2016. According to AAA, four of the top ten destinations are west coast cities. Las Vegas is the most popular destination, and New York City appears fifth on the list.
Some travelers here say, good weather in Western New York, may however make what is expected to be a busy traveling weekend somewhat easier.
 |
Live video, the latest news and no surveys - download the WKBW app |
 |
News, forecast and Bills newsletters delivered to your e-mail inbox |
