AAA is projecting that more than 700,000 Kentucky residents will travel more than 50 miles from home over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The number is only slightly higher compared to last year, representing less than a one percent increase. While travel continues to rebound, this year’s travel forecast is still tracking at about 98% of pre-pandemic Thanksgiving travel volume in 2019 nationwide. AAA defines the Thanksgiving holiday travel period from Wednesday, November 23 to Sunday, November 27.
Travelers facing higher fuel prices
The majority of Kentuckians will be driving to their holiday destinations, with AAA projecting that about 96% of Kentucky travelers–nearly 690,000 in the commonwealth–will be hitting the road, up slightly from last year. “Gas prices are trending around 25 cents more than last year nationally and here in Kentucky, they are nearly 30 cents more than last year. However, those choosing to travel are making room in their budget for the higher cost of fuel,” said Lori Weaver Hawkins, public affairs manager, AAA Blue Grass.
Today’s national gas price is $3.66, an increase of 26 cents compared to last year. The Kentucky average is $3.35, up 27 cents compared to year ago prices.
“Consistent with what AAA has been seeing throughout the year, the demand for travel has continued and the Thanksgiving holiday is certainly no exception,” said Weaver Hawkins. “Some are able to rely on savings from postponing travel during the pandemic while others are finding ways to fit travel into their budget in other ways.”
Air travel by Kentuckians increase by nearly 6 percent
Nearly 3 percent of Kentuckians traveling–about 21,645–will fly to their holiday destinations, according to AAA’s travel forecast, representing more than a 6 percent jump compared to last year.
Traffic near the airports in popular travel destinations could be especially congested. Airport parking is expected to be challenging as well. “Airport parking spaces are expected to fill up fast, so reserve a spot ahead of time and arrive early or use a rideshare,” Weaver Hawkins suggested. “Anticipate long TSA lines. If possible, avoid checking a bag to allow for more flexibility if flights are delayed or you need to reschedule.”
