A record number of Michiganders are expected to travel over the Thanksgiving holiday, driven by confidence in economic growth and falling inflation, the state’s largest auto insurer said.
This can mean long lines, flight cancellations, delays and lost luggage.
One airline, troubled Spirit Airlines, has filed for bankruptcy protection, and auto club AAA said average gasoline prices in Michigan have risen nearly a dime per gallon since last week, $3.13 per gallon for regular unleaded.
Still, the gasoline price is 21 cents less than a month ago and 18 cents less than a year ago.
Nearly 2.6 million Michigan residents, most by car, are expected to travel 50 miles or more for the Nov. 28 holiday, which would be a record high by the AAA car club’s count, and 65,000 more people than last year.
Nationally, AAA predicted that nearly 80 million people – up 2% from last year – will travel.
“We expect record travel numbers across the board,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of AAA. “As more people take to road, air, rail and sea, travelers should expect busy roads and longer queues at transport terminals.”
As a result, she recommended an itinerary and travel insurance.
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Expect to pay more to fly
Domestic airfares are up 3% this year, AAA said, with bookings similar to last year. International bookings are up 23% from 2023, partly because the cost of flying internationally has fallen by about 5%.
Spirit – one of 17 airlines flying in and out of Detroit Metro – is facing losses, failed merger attempts and debt. But the company said it plans to continue flying and ticket holders will be able to fly without interruption.
Experts said Thanksgiving travel is unlikely to be affected by Spirit’s bankruptcy filing, and recommended flyers check their plans and be aware that flights later in the year could be subject to schedule changes and cancellations.
More people are cruising
One type of holiday travel that is booming this year: cruises.
“The demand for cruises is extremely high this year,” Haas said. “Domestic and international cruise bookings are up 20% compared to last Thanksgiving. As new ocean and river cruise options have been introduced, more travelers are discovering the value and fun of cruising.”
Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: AAA warns of crowds, lines and delays for Thanksgiving travel
