From theme park destinations to bustling metropolitan areas, Americans are crisscrossing the country this Thanksgiving. AAA has compiled a list of the top domestic destinations based on flight, hotel, and rental car bookings for Thanksgiving week. Orlando and Anaheim top the list again, as they did in 2021 and 2019, while two new additions round out the top 10 this year: Chicago and Charlotte.
“Thanksgiving is all about spending time with family and friends, so it’s no surprise that theme park destinations top the list, with entertainment and meals accessible within a resort,” said Diana Gugliotta, Director of Public Affairs for AAA Northeast. “Chicago and Charlotte join Atlanta as hub cities for the three largest airlines – American, Delta, and United – and will see lots of activity this holiday season, as airline routes and direct flights are limited, and staff shortage still exists.”
Average hotel booking costs are up 8% compared to 2021, but hotel prices in some cities like Las Vegas and Denver are lower this year. “Since travel restrictions have lifted, we are seeing more of a shift from rural destinations back to urban cities, like New York,” Ms. Gugliotta added. “Consumer confidence has improved, and travelers want the excitement and accessibility of big cities, as well as more hotel options and greater inventory, which can sometimes mean better pricing.”
| Ranking | Destination | Average Hotel Booking* | 2022 Prices Compared to 2021 |
| 1 | Orlando, FL | $616 | ↓ 11% |
| 2 | Anaheim, CA | $643 | ↑ 5% |
| 3 | Las Vegas, NV | $319 | ↓ 17% |
| 4 | New York, NY | $1,116 | ↑ 25% |
| 5 | Atlanta, GA | $426 | ↑ 7% |
| 6 | Phoenix, AZ | $530 | ↓ 7% |
| 7 | Dallas/Fort Worth, TX | $406 | ↑ 13% |
| 8 | Denver, CO | $407 | ↓ 24% |
| 9 | Chicago, IL | $440 | ↑ 17% |
| 10 | Charlotte, NC | $510 | ↑ 66% |
*AAA hotel data reflects average booking prices for entire stays during Thanksgiving week, which vary in length. These are not nightly rates.
Rental Car Dos and Don’ts
Flight booked? Check! … Hotel reserved? Check! … Car rented? … Still haven’t done that?
Don’t wait too long!
As you’re planning your holiday travel, AAA recommends booking your car rental well in advance to lock in a good rate and give you peace of mind. Here are some Dos and Don’ts to make the process a smooth one.
Do book early. Waiting until the last minute is risky. Rates are often more expensive the closer you get to your desired rental date. Added bonus: when you reserve with plenty of time, you may be offered a pre-pay option that includes a discount. Cancellation fees may apply, though, so check with the company first.
Do shop travel sales. Take advantage of AAA Travel’s World on Sale Cyber Savings Weekend when you book November 25-28 if plan to travel in the new year or give someone special a vacation as a holiday gift. This sale allows you to double-up on travel credits and earn up to $1600 in savings. Visit www.AAA.com/Travel Explore AAA’s newest free travel tool, Trip Canvas, where you can dream, plan, and book your next getaway!
Do share your flight details. If you’re flying into the city where you’re renting a car, include your flight number, airline, and ETA when booking the vehicle. That protects your rental reservation if your flight is delayed.
Do consider non-airport locations. During the busy holiday season, airport car rental locations may be crowded and low on inventory. You may have better luck renting from a neighborhood branch. And check with the rental company: it may even offer a free pickup service.
Don’t just drive off. When you pick up the rental car, take a moment to check out the vehicle. Familiarize yourself with the controls. Plug in your charger. Connect to Bluetooth. Activate maps/navigation. Get settled now, so you’re not distracted later.
Don’t go it alone. AAA travel agents can help members – for free! – book their rental vehicles plus find discounts and bundled travel options. AAA members can also receive up to 20% off base rates at Hertz car rental locations. Other Hertz benefits exclusively for AAA members include one free child safety seat and waiving additional driver fees *and* young renter fees for drivers ages 20-24.
Don’t forget to plan ahead! Whether it’s mapping out gas stations or electric vehicle charging stations along your route and at your destination, or planning which attractions and activities you want to visit when you arrive, AAA offers TripTik and Trip Canvas, two free travel tools to keep you organized and prepared.
AAA’s Thanksgiving travel projections will be released on November 15.