Thanksgiving Travel & Getaways for 2025

Thanksgiving 2025 is shaping up to be a season of smart, meaningful travel. Whether you’re heading across the country to visit family, escaping to a quiet cabin in the mountains, or jetting off for an international adventure, this holiday offers the perfect opportunity to combine celebration with exploration. With trends leaning toward longer getaways, nostalgic destinations, and sustainable choices, planning ahead can make your Thanksgiving trip memorable and stress-free.

1. Thanksgiving Travel Hacks

Plan Early and Travel Smart

Traveling during Thanksgiving can be stressful, but smart planning makes all the difference. In 2025, travelers are booking earlier, using flight prediction apps, and flying on off-peak days like Tuesday or Saturday.

Beat the Airport Rush

Consider using carry-on luggage to avoid airport delays, and download airline apps for instant updates. Opt for lesser-known airports or regional hubs to beat crowds and enjoy smoother journeys.

2. Longer Getaways & Nostalgic Travel

Turning Thanksgiving into a Mini-Vacation

Many Americans are stretching the Thanksgiving holiday into extended vacations. Remote work flexibility and school breaks make it ideal for multi-day escapes.

The Pull of Nostalgia

Popular choices include returning to childhood vacation spots, visiting grandparents' homes, or staying in cozy mountain cabins. These nostalgic trips offer emotional connection and a sense of tradition that modern travelers crave.

3. Domestic vs. International Destinations

U.S. Hotspots for Thanksgiving 2025

Domestically, families are flocking to destinations like Asheville (NC), Sedona (AZ), and New England towns that showcase peak fall foliage. For beach lovers, Florida’s Gulf Coast and Southern California remain top picks.

Global Getaways with a Twist

Internationally, Canadians, Mexicans, and expats are booking Thanksgiving-week trips to destinations like Portugal, Tiger safaris in India (www.98stripes.com), Costa Rica, or Japan for a fresh cultural twist on the holiday.

4. Sustainable Travel Choices

Eco-Friendly Transport Options

Eco-consciousness is rising among U.S. holiday travelers. In 2025, Americans are choosing train travel, hybrid rental cars, or carpooling to reduce emissions.

Supporting Local and Traveling Green

Many are staying at eco-lodges or LEED-certified hotels, packing reusable water bottles and utensils, and offsetting their travel footprint through donation programs. Regional travel also supports local economies while cutting down carbon output.

Whether you're planning a nostalgic road trip or an adventurous international escape, Thanksgiving 2025 is the perfect time to explore mindfully. With thoughtful planning, you can make memories while avoiding crowds and reducing your environmental impact.