117M American adults expected to travel for December holidays, survey finds

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Approximately 117 million American adults are expected to vacation or travel to a destination for the holidays this year, according to a survey analysis from online travel resource site The Vacationer.

That 117 million travelers figure equates to just over 45% of adults, per The Vacationer's survey findings. That December holidays travel number marks a decrease from Thanksgiving data, which found nearly 51% of American adults intended to travel for the November holiday.

When comparing various age groups, adults ages 18 to 29 were deemed the most likely to travel for the December holidays this year, with nearly 55% saying they would. By comparison, roughly 33% of adults in the 60-year range said they'd travel for end-of-year festivities.

The December holiday travel period also comes with a bit of a price tag; nearly one-third of travelers said they would spend $1,000 or more on their trip to their vacation destination or holiday gathering.

Part of those expenses include air fare for some travelers. When asked about concerns over possible flight delays and cancellations, nearly 46% of respondents said they were either "not confident at all" or "a little confident" in airlines during the holidays. By comparison, the remaining 54% ranged between "somewhat confident," "confident" and "extremely confident."

More details on the survey's findings are available online.

For those traveling out of Austin, airport officials are reminding passengers to brace for busier travel conditions. Domestic flight passengers are asked to arrive at least 2.5 hours early before boarding, while those traveling on international flights should come three hours early.

AUS’ online traveler resources outline carry-on and checked luggage provisions, how to check flight statuses before arriving, pickup and drop-off best practices and how to travel with children and pets. Those planning to park at AUS can review lot and garage parking fees and reserve a parking spot in advance of their trip online.