DALLAS – Gas prices are expected to hold steady at an average of $3.02 per gallon on Thanksgiving Day, matching last year and remaining among the lowest holiday levels since 2021, according to GasBuddy. But the stable prices are not translating into increased travel.
GasBuddy’s 2025 Thanksgiving Travel Survey shows that 60 percent of Americans plan to take a road trip for the holiday, down from 72 percent a year earlier. The drop suggests a shift toward more home-centered celebrations even as fuel costs remain relatively low.
“Gas prices are cooperating this Thanksgiving, but that’s not translating into more travelers,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “Drivers have grown more resilient to price swings, yet I worry that concerns about a cooling economy may be weighing on Americans’ willingness to travel. Even with affordable gas, economic uncertainty can make people stay closer to home.”
The survey found that 74 percent of respondents say gas prices have no effect on their travel plans, up from about 56 percent last year. Among those who are traveling, most expect to follow familiar patterns: 56 percent will cross at least one state line and 66 percent plan to drive more than 100 miles. Many intend to leave early to mid-morning on Wednesday, Nov. 26.
Gas stations remain the most common stop for travelers, with convenience, price and restroom cleanliness cited as primary factors. A majority of drivers plan to use a loyalty or cash-back program to manage fuel costs, although participation dipped slightly from last year.
“Even with fewer people on the road, it pays to compare prices before filling up,” De Haan said. “Crossing a state line can mean a 10 to 25 cent jump in prices, and in rare cases, differences of up to a dollar per gallon.”
Promotional program details and holiday giveaways mentioned in the source material have been omitted.