Nearly half of Americans are planning to travel between Thanksgiving and mid-January, according to a survey from Deloitte, which noted the value consumers are placing on experiences is propelling this trend. The average American travel budget for 2023 is $2,725 and 64% of travelers say this is similar to what they spent during the 2022 holiday season. Most people will travel to be with family this year, while rest and relaxation was the second most commonly cited reason for holiday trips, Deloitte found. Be it by plane, train or automobile, holiday travelers will fare well if they can avoid the cities in the above slideshow, which ranks the worst locales for holiday travel, according to Forbes Advisor. Consumers planning to take trips in the upcoming year should expect to pay more, as Squaremouth reported that 2024 will be the most expensive year on record for travelers. Trips to Europe were up more than 20% in 2023, and prices are expected to continue growing. On top of this, 84% said their travel spending will increase or stay the same in 2024. The following are additional holiday travel trips, courtesy of Squaremouth: |

• Plan for delays: About 25% of 2023 travel insurance claims result from delays and missed connections, a number likely to rise during the holidays. Squaremouth recommended policies that activate after a 3-hour delay and cove any common carrier delays.
• Arrive early: Expect a busy holiday season with crowds and long lines. Plan ahead even if you have travel delay coverage, which typically covers flight delays, not delays caused by traffic, TSA lines or late check-in.
• Protect luggage: Secure your luggage, especially if carrying gifts. Consider trip protection covering lost, delayed or damaged personal belongings during transit.
• Stay organized: Keep documents in order, especially during travel disruptions.

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