Survey: Nearly half of Americans plan to go on trips this holiday season
Nearly half of Americans plan to travel over the holidays this year, according to a new survey — meaning millions of travelers will be battling busy and congested roads and airports.
The 48% of Americans planning a trip for Thanksgiving or the year-end holidays is up significantly from 31% last year, according to the recent survey released by consulting firm Deloitte.
Of those who are planning to travel during the holidays, more than 37% plan to fly, survey results showed. Most are planning road trips.
Just 11% of people were deterred from travel because of concerns about health, down from 18% last year. Instead, the top reason for people not to travel was money concerns, with 38% of those not taking a trip saying they cannot afford it.
The results are based on a September survey of 5,281 Americans.
The rise of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic has driven shifts in travel patterns, with one-third of those who will travel saying they’re likely to work during long trips over the holidays.
Eileen Crowley, vice chair of U.S. transportation, hospitality and services at Deloitte, said in a statement, “laptop luggers continue to leverage flexible work arrangements.” That allows them to extend their trips.
The large numbers of holiday travelers will put a strain on the world’s busiest airport.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has already been packed with long lines in recent weeks, as the rebound in travel brings a near record number of passengers through security checkpoints on busy days.