Thanksgiving travel in 2025 is unfolding under an intriguing paradox: gas prices are very low by recent standards, yet fewer Americans are hitting the road than in previous years. As of late November, the national average price for a gallon of gas stands around $3.02, near the lowest Thanksgiving-level prices seen in nearly four years, matching levels from the pandemic period in 2021 and 2024 according to GasBuddy. Despite this, only about 60% of Americans plan to take a road trip this year, down from 72% the year before.
This disconnect between fuel costs and travel enthusiasm reveals a more complex traveler mindset. Most Americans, about 74% according to recent surveys, say gas prices have little to no impact on their Thanksgiving travel plans, a notable increase from roughly 56% last year. This suggests that while low gas prices remove a financial barrier to travel, other factors are influencing people’s willingness to embark on holiday.
Among those choosing to travel, the intent remains consistent with past years: crossing state lines and traveling more than 100 miles are common. However, the overall drop in travel volume points to a heightened sense of economic uncertainty rather than direct cost concerns. Factors such as worries about the U.S. economy cooling, anxieties stemming from layoffs, and recent fiscal policy uncertainties appear to steer travelers toward more home-centered holidays this year.
For businesses in travel and related sectors, this shift presents both challenges and opportunities. Though gas prices are favorable, consumer caution dampens demand for extended travel. Automotive manufacturers, hospitality providers, and fuel retailers might expect less foot traffic in high-travel corridors even as affordability improves. The regional variance in gas prices remains pronounced, impacting the local cost calculus for travel.
Looking ahead, the resilience of travel patterns amidst fluctuating economic confidence will be critical to watch. While inflation-adjusted gas prices are at their lowest since the pandemic, signaling real cost savings for drivers, the broader economic landscape tempers enthusiasm for travel spending. This dynamic could spark modest shifts in how Americans approach holiday travel, blending financial prudence with the enduring desire to connect with family and friends.
