As the summer travel season winds down, Floridians are already gearing up for the year-end holidays. A new AAA survey shows that 65% of residents plan to take an overnight vacation between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, with many already securing their bookings.
The survey found that over a third of Floridians typically start booking their holiday trips before September, with nearly half booking between September and October. Only a small percentage wait until November or December. AAA’s Debbie Haas advises booking before October to ensure the best itinerary and price, as preferred options will likely fill up quickly.
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For Thanksgiving, 70% of Florida travelers plan a trip with at least one overnight stay. While 30% will have finalized their plans before September, 27% will do so in September, and 30% in October. For those flying, booking flights for Sunday or Monday before Thanksgiving or Saturday after the holiday is recommended to avoid the busiest travel days and potential airport congestion.
Christmas travel is also popular, with 77% of Floridians planning an overnight trip. Most travelers prefer to arrive at their destination by Christmas Eve, so with Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, expect longer airport lines the weekend and Monday before the holiday.
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AAA offers several tips for booking flights, including booking early, opting for direct morning flights, and considering travel insurance to protect against weather-related disruptions. The unpredictability of winter weather can lead to flight cancellations and delays, even in warmer destinations. Travel insurance can provide financial compensation for lost or delayed luggage, flight cancellations, and even flight delays of as little as three hours.
While the summer may be over, the travel spirit remains strong among Floridians. As the holiday season approaches, it’s wise to heed AAA’s advice and plan your trips early to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
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