AAA Predicts Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Forecast for Florida in 2023

As the year-end holiday season approaches, Florida is bracing for a travel surge unlike any seen before. AAA projects a staggering 6.6 million Floridians will journey 50 miles or more from December 23rd to January 1st, setting a new record for holiday travel in the state.

This figure surpasses last year’s record by nearly 218,000 travelers, not even accounting for out-of-state visitors flocking to the Sunshine State for its allure.

Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group, highlights this as not only the busiest year-end holiday travel season for Florida but also the second busiest nationwide. Despite inflationary pressures, Americans are keen on travel, budgeting to make these year-end trips possible,” she said. “With record numbers hitting the roads, airports, and cruise lines, travelers should anticipate more crowded conditions and plan accordingly.”

National Travel Figures: A Closer Look

The nationwide travel forecast is equally impressive, with 115.2 million total travelers expected, making it the second highest on record since 2019. Of these, 103.6 million will travel by car, and a record 7.5 million by air. Additionally, travel by other modes like bus, train, and cruise is anticipated to reach its highest since 2008, with 4 million travelers.

Record Number of Florida Drivers

Over 6 million Floridians are predicted to drive to their holiday destinations, an increase from last year. Drivers can expect gas prices to be similar or lower than last year’s holiday season, with averages of $2.99 and $3.24 on Christmas and New Year’s Day, respectively.

Air Travel Hits New Highs

Airports are expected to witness their busiest season ever, with AAA forecasting 7.5 million air travelers nationally. In Florida, nearly 357,000 residents are expected to fly, marking the second-highest air travel volume on record for the state. Average roundtrip ticket prices to Orlando show a decrease from last year, standing at $613.

Haas advises travelers to book flights early for the best deals and to consider travel insurance, especially given the potential for winter weather disruptions. “Flight cancellations, lost luggage, and delays are realities of holiday travel, making insurance a wise choice,” she noted.

Alternative Transportation on the Rise

Travel by bus, train, and cruise is expected to surpass 2019 figures, with over 4 million Americans choosing these modes. Post-pandemic, the demand for cruises has surged, and the industry is gearing up for a wave of bookings in the new year.

Best and Worst Times to Drive

Traffic analysis by INRIX predicts congested roads, particularly on December 23 and 28, as well as December 30. Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX, recommends avoiding peak hours and using traffic apps to navigate the holiday rush. “Expect up to 20% longer travel times, and in major metros, delays could be nearly double,” he said.

Top Holiday Destinations

Florida and the Caribbean remain popular warm-weather destinations, while New York, Las Vegas, London, and Rome are top picks for holiday travelers, according to AAA flight data.

Airport Parking Tips

With airports busier than ever, AAA suggests reserving parking spots in advance. They recommend using well-lit, secure garages, and for those opting for off-site parking. Other tips include opting for covered parking in inclement weather, removing valuables from vehicles, and taking a photo of the parking spot for ease of return.

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