AAA: More Than 373,000 West Virginians Expected to Travel for Thanksgiving Holiday

AAA is projecting a busy Thanksgiving travel period in West Virginia, with an estimated 373,466 residents expected to travel 50 miles or more between Tuesday, November 25 and Monday, December 1 — a 1.7% increase over last year. They’ll join nearly 82 million Americans traveling nationwide.

“Americans continue to make travel a priority, with Thanksgiving an especially popular holiday for taking a trip to gather with family and friends,” said Lori Weaver Hawkins, public and government affairs manager for AAA Blue Grass. “Travelers should expect busy roadways and airports, and plan accordingly.”

West Virginia Thanksgiving Travel Forecast 2025

Most Travelers Hitting the Road

Road trips remain the top choice for West Virginians, with more than 341,000 residents expected to travel by car. Drivers will find gas prices averaging around $3 per gallon, just two cents higher than this time last year. Twenty-five counties are currently averaging below the $3 mark.

Nationally, nearly 73.3 million Americans are expected to drive.

To prevent breakdowns, AAA encourages motorists to get vehicles inspected ahead of travel—especially batteries, tires, brakes, and fluid levels. Drivers can find AAA Approved Auto Repair locations at AAA.com.

AAA: Stay Safe and Pack Your Patience

With millions of Americans traveling, Weaver Hawkins urges drivers to slow down, avoid distractions, and give themselves extra time.

“Becoming frustrated because you’re caught in traffic and running late can lead to anger behind the wheel and aggressive driving behaviors,” she said. Motorists are also reminded to never drive impaired and ensure all passengers are buckled up.

AAA also stresses the importance of slowing down and moving over for roadside workers, emergency responders, and stranded motorists.

More Than 6% of Travelers Will Fly

Roughly 23,010 West Virginians are expected to travel by air—an increase of 0.5% from last year. Nationwide, 6 million Americans are expected to fly, a 2.1% increase.

AAA recommends arriving at airports earlier than usual due to heavy crowds and using airline apps for real-time updates.

Bus, Train, and Cruise Travel Also Up

About 7,080 West Virginians are expected to travel by bus, train, or cruise—a 5.5% increase. Nationally, 2.5 million Americans are expected to travel by non-automobile, non-air modes.

Best and Worst Times to Travel

Transportation analytics company INRIX expects the busiest travel periods to be Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons before Thanksgiving. Heavy traffic is also likely on Sunday as travelers head home.