Americans’ travel preferences and 2025 holiday season challenges revealed: Everything you need to know

Published on October 29, 2025

With the beginning of the winter vacation American People are already preparing for a major travel rush. An insightful survey conducted by Upgraded Points has highlighted important trends in holiday travel patterns, covering aspects such as travel distance, transportation and allocating funds for upcoming holidays of 2025. The results highlight that the scenario of dividing family obligations as well as keeping up with holiday fun and rising travel costs is not easy, but at the same time, people are more inclined to visit their friends and relatives who live far away or see new places during the holiday season.

The survey, which surveyed more than 2,300 American adults, highlights travel preferences, especially how to travel Long distance travel It remains an important feature of the holiday seasons, and how Cost and logistics They shape where and how Americans choose to travel.

Holiday travel patterns: who travels and where they go?

Home for the holidays It remains a strong tradition for most Americans. According to the survey, 56% Of the participants usually celebrate the holidays at home, while 34% Traveling to someone else’s house, and only that 9% Choose for vacation. However, the survey also highlights this Travel distances It varies greatly between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

to Thanksgiving Day, 28% Of travelers flight more than 50 mileswhile Christmas See more comprehensive travel, with 34% travel 50+ miles and 10% covering distances 500 miles or more. The survey reveals a clear shift in travel behavior over Christmas, with an increasing number of people willing to go the extra mile, both literally and figuratively, to celebrate with family or take a break from the traditional holiday routine.

The best US states to travel on vacation

The survey also identifies states with the highest volume of holiday travel. Includes the states with the largest number of vacation travelers Ohio, Connecticutand Texaswith 62%, 58%and 56% of the population, respectively, planning to travel. These states lead in travel liability, with residents ready to be covered Longer distances And experience more dynamic travel methods.

On the other hand, such as states Nevada, Utahand Hawaii Shows the highest rates of residents staying home for the holidays, with 72.7%, 71.2%and 68.1% of its residents choose a more relaxed holiday season. These trends are reflected diverse Travel preferences are changing across the country, with some states prioritizing family visits and others choosing to avoid the stress of long-distance travel during the busy holiday season.

Long Distance Travel: Where do Americans travel the furthest?

while Traveling short distances is still very popular, Long trips Ground is gained, especially for those who make Cross-country trips Or visit family from afar. Survey Highlights Colorado As the supreme state of Long-distance holiday travelwith 24.5% Of residents who plan to travel 500 miles or more For holidays. Other states such as Arizona, Missouriand Massachusetts It follows closely, with large portions of its population embarking on epic journeys for over a year 500 miles.

This shift towards Long distance travel Points out that many Americans prioritize vacation experiences that include extended family visits or… Holiday destinations Away from home. Air travel It is expected to be the main means of transportation for many, but there is also a growing trend for transportation Land trips For those seeking to avoid the stress of airports.

Challenges of air travel and the high cost of holidays

As in past years, Air travel It remains the primary means of transportation for many holiday travelers. However, the survey shows this 74% of respondents will Don’t fly at allwith many choosing to drive instead. the Cost of flights, Airport delayand Increase security measures These are just some of the reasons why travelers choose alternative means of transportation.

For those who plan to fly, Budget constraints They play an important role in decision making. with 21% Of travelers who decide to skip travel altogether due to cost concerns, and 20% As they cut back on gifts to cover the costs of their travels, the financial implications of holiday travel are more important than ever. This highlights The importance of affordable travel Choices and the need for cost-effective solutions in the holiday travel market.

The impact of work and family commitments on travel

Family obligations and Work schedules It also affects travel decisions. 44% Of travelers feel obligated to visit family, while… 42% They prefer to take a vacation instead of spending holidays with relatives. Meanwhile, 12% quote Work obligations As a reason to stay home this holiday season. These dynamics show how Personal preferences and External factors It can greatly impact where and how people travel during the holidays.

Plan smarter, more enjoyable holiday travel

My findings Upgraded points Survey highlights complexities Vacation travel The year is 2025, as Americans balance long distances, family expectations, and budget constraints. With rising costs, flight cancellations and logistical challenges, travelers are increasingly looking for ways to make their trips more efficient and cost-effective. The key to enjoying A stress-free holiday season It may lie in better planning, choosing the right travel days, and considering alternatives to traditional air travel.

transitions in Vacation travel Knowing these trends will continue to help travelers determine the best time, place and way to celebrate their holiday season. It doesn’t matter if a person travels by plane, drives a car, or stays at home; Timely arrangements will be the real factor in ensuring that the holidays are memorable for the right reasons.