TAMPA – Floridians are getting a head start on their holiday travel plans this year, according to new survey data from AAA. With the season fast approaching, AAA is offering insights into emerging travel trends and practical tips to help travelers make the most of their holiday journeys.

“Planning your holiday travel early is the best way to have the most choices, secure great value, and avoid the stress of last-minute planning,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We recommend finalizing plans before the end of October to access the best combination of price and availability.”

2025 Holiday Travel Trends

Top holiday travel trends include major cities, beach getaways, resort vacations (all-inclusive/multi-amenity hotels), and cruising.

Over half (59%) of Floridians plan to take at least one overnight trip during the 2025 holiday season:

• 76% will travel for Christmas
• 67% will travel for Thanksgiving
• 56% will travel for New Year's Eve

Uptick in Vacations: More than a quarter (30%) of Floridians plan to take more holiday vacations this year. About half (49%) will take the same as last year.

Thanksgiving Travel Trends

• 58% of Thanksgiving travelers from Florida finalized their travel plans by the end of September
• By the end of October, most trips (85%) will be finalized
• Only 14% plan to wait until November

Peak travel days: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday

For smaller crowds and more flight options, consider flying the Sunday or Monday before Thanksgiving and returning Saturday.

Christmas Travel Trends

• Nearly half (47%) of Christmas travelers will finalize their travel plans in October or November
• Just 11% will wait until December
• Most travelers aim to arrive by Christmas Eve

With Christmas Day falling on a Thursday, expect airport congestion the weekend before and early that week.

AAA’s Top Tips for Holiday Travel

• Book early to secure nonstop flights and avoid layovers
• Choose morning departures to reduce the risk of delays or cancellations
• Travel a day or two early to build in buffer time in case of delays
• Allow extra time between connecting flights to avoid missed connections
• Compare Options across airlines, airports, and dates for better deals
• Use travel rewards to offset peak-season costs for flights and hotels

Why Travel Insurance is Essential This Winter

Winter weather can disrupt even the best-laid plans. A single storm can ripple across the country, causing widespread delays and cancellations. Yet many Floridians remain unaware of how travel insurance can help:

• Only 39% say they feel very informed about its benefits
• 13% have little to no awareness of its benefits

“As much as we wish we could control the weather, the best we can do is protect ourselves against what might go wrong,” continued Haas. “Travel insurance is a smart safeguard, giving you peace of mind and valuable financial support when travel doesn’t go according to plan.”