Texas, December 13, 2025
Texas is preparing for a significant holiday travel season, with around 9.4 million residents expected to travel at least 50 miles from home. This marks a 1.7% increase over the previous year and is close to the pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019. Many Texans are opting for road trips, with major cities like Dallas, Austin, and Houston anticipated as popular destinations. Travelers are advised to plan trips ahead and be mindful of weather and traffic conditions to ensure a safe journey during this festive period.
Texas Gears Up for Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Season
Anticipated Growth in Holiday Travel
Texas is preparing for an extraordinary surge in holiday travel, with approximately 9.4 million residents expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the approaching year-end period. This figure represents a 1.7% increase over 2024 and closely trails the 9.5 million travelers recorded in 2019. On a national scale, AAA estimates that a record 122.4 million Americans will embark on journeys during the same time frame, marking an increase of 2.7 million from last year.
Travel Trends and Expectations
The travel preferences of Texans remain consistent, with an estimated 8.2 million expected to travel by car, while approximately 1.1 million will opt for air travel. This inclination toward road trips during the holiday season highlights the desire for family and community engagement as residents venture to their favorite destinations.
Local Attractions and Activities
Major Texas cities like Dallas, Austin, and Houston are anticipated to be popular destinations during this festivity-laden time. In Austin, families can partake in joyful activities, like the renowned Trail of Lights at Zilker Park and the magical Peppermint Parkway at the Circuit of the Americas, both of which promise to imbue the holiday spirit while showcasing local culture.
Travel Safety and Preparations
As the holiday season approaches, travelers are encouraged to plan their trips in advance, keeping the potential for increased traffic in mind. It’s advisable to stay updated on weather conditions and possible road closures to ensure safe and efficient travel. Additionally, considering alternative routes and travel times can help to reduce congestion and enhance one’s overall journey.
The Trend of Holiday Travel in Texas
Holiday travel in Texas has been steadily increasing, with record numbers reported in recent years. For instance, more than 5.8 million Texans traveled during the Thanksgiving holiday period in 2025—a testament to the state’s robust economy and the significance of holiday travel traditions among its inhabitants.
Weather Forecasts for Holiday Travel Destinations
Understanding the weather is crucial for those traveling during the holidays. Here are the forecasts for major Texas cities during this festive period:
Houston, TX
Current Conditions: Mostly cloudy, 65°F (18°C)
Daily Forecast:
* Saturday, December 13: Low: 58°F (14°C), High: 76°F (25°C), Description: Clouds and sun with a stray thunderstorm, warm; fog this morning
* Sunday, December 14: Low: 32°F (0°C), High: 63°F (17°C), Description: A morning shower in spots; otherwise, breezy and cooler with sun and areas of low clouds
* Monday, December 15: Low: 43°F (6°C), High: 53°F (12°C), Description: Sunny to partly cloudy
* Tuesday, December 16: Low: 58°F (14°C), High: 63°F (17°C), Description: Mostly cloudy
* Wednesday, December 17: Low: 63°F (17°C), High: 71°F (22°C), Description: Mostly cloudy
* Thursday, December 18: Low: 52°F (11°C), High: 77°F (25°C), Description: A shower in spots in the morning; otherwise, warmer with a blend of sun and clouds
* Friday, December 19: Low: 52°F (11°C), High: 68°F (20°C), Description: Mostly sunny and less humid
Dallas, TX
Current Conditions: Mostly cloudy, 46°F (8°C)
Daily Forecast:
* Saturday, December 13: Low: 31°F (-1°C), High: 64°F (18°C), Description: Areas of morning fog; otherwise, periods of clouds and sunshine; best day of the weekend
* Sunday, December 14: Low: 27°F (-3°C), High: 46°F (8°C), Description: Mostly sunny, brisk and chilly
* Monday, December 15: Low: 41°F (5°C), High: 53°F (12°C), Description: Partly sunny
* Tuesday, December 16: Low: 52°F (11°C), High: 63°F (17°C), Description: Sun and areas of high clouds in the morning; clouds breaking at times for some sunshine in the afternoon
* Wednesday, December 17: Low: 60°F (16°C), High: 72°F (22°C), Description: Low clouds, then perhaps some sun
* Thursday, December 18: Low: 46°F (8°C), High: 69°F (20°C), Description: Times of clouds and sun
* Friday, December 19: Low: 51°F (10°C), High: 71°F (22°C), Description: Plenty of sunshine
Austin, TX
Current Conditions: Mostly cloudy, 61°F (16°C)
Daily Forecast:
* Saturday, December 13: Low: 46°F (8°C), High: 77°F (25°C), Description: Areas of morning fog; otherwise, partial sunshine
* Sunday, December 14: Low: 33°F (1°C), High: 54°F (12°C), Description: Mostly cloudy, breezy and cooler
* Monday, December 15: Low: 43°F (6°C), High: 56°F (13°C), Description: Partly sunny
* Tuesday, December 16: Low: 54°F (12°C), High: 63°F (17°C), Description: Low clouds
* Wednesday, December 17: Low: 64°F (18°C), High: 72°F (22°C), Description: Low clouds
* Thursday, December 18: Low: 47°F (8°C), High: 76°F (24°C), Description: Nice and warm with times of clouds and sun
* Friday, December 19: Low: 51°F (11°C), High: 73°F (23°C), Description: Mostly sunny
San Antonio, TX
Current Conditions: Cloudy, 66°F (19°C)
Daily Forecast:
* Saturday, December 13: Low: 54°F (12°C), High: 78°F (26°C), Description: Warm with partial sunshine; areas of fog this morning, then pleasant this afternoon
* Sunday, December 14: Low: 36°F (2°C), High: 62°F (17°C), Description: Low clouds, then perhaps some sun, windy and cooler
* Monday, December 15: Low: 45°F (7°C), High: 60°F (15°C), Description: Intervals of clouds and sunshine
* Tuesday, December 16: Low: 58°F (14°C), High: 62°F (17°C), Description: Considerable cloudiness with a couple of showers
* Wednesday, December 17: Low: 64°F (18°C), High: 75°F (24°C), Description: A morning shower in places; otherwise, mostly cloudy and warmer
* Thursday, December 18: Low: 50°F (10°C), High: 75°F (24°C), Description: Times of clouds and sun
* Friday, December 19: Low: 55°F (13°C), High: 76°F (24°C), Description: Times of clouds and sun
El Paso, TX
Current Conditions: Partly cloudy, 40°F (4°C)
Daily Forecast:
* Saturday, December 13: Low: 45°F (7°C), High: 71°F (22°C), Description: Plenty of sunshine
* Sunday, December 14: Low: 38°F (4°C), High: 62°F (17°C), Description: Mostly sunny
* Monday, December 15: Low: 36°F (2°C), High: 64°F (18°C), Description: Pleasant with sun and areas of high clouds
* Tuesday, December 16: Low: 37°F (3°C), High: 69°F (21°C), Description: Mostly sunny
* Wednesday, December 17: Low: 48°F (9°C), High: 70°F (21°C), Description: Abundant sunshine with the temperature approaching the record of 23 set in 1980
* Thursday, December 18: Low: 40°F (4°C), High: 72°F (22°C), Description: Warm with more sun than clouds
* Friday, December 19: Low: 42°F (6°C), High: 71°F (22°C), Description: Plenty of sun
By staying informed and making proper preparations, travelers can navigate the busy holiday season with ease. Embracing local festivities and supporting Austin’s vibrant community can enhance this year’s holiday experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many Texans are expected to travel during the year-end holidays?
Approximately 9.4 million Texans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holiday period, marking a 1.7% increase over 2024.
What are some popular holiday activities in Austin, Texas?
In Austin, residents and visitors can enjoy festive activities like the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park and the Peppermint Parkway at the Circuit of the Americas.
How can travelers prepare for increased holiday traffic in Texas?
Travelers are advised to plan their trips in advance, anticipate increased traffic, and adhere to safety guidelines. Staying informed about weather conditions and potential road closures will help ensure a smooth journey.
What are the weather forecasts for major Texas cities during the holiday period?
Weather forecasts for major Texas cities during the holiday period include detailed forecasts for Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso.
How does the 2025 holiday travel forecast compare to previous years?
The 2025 holiday travel forecast of 9.4 million Texans is a 1.7% increase over 2024 and approaches the 9.5 million travelers recorded in 2019.
Key Features of Texas Holiday Travel 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Travelers | 9.4 million Texans expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holiday period. |
| Travel Mode Preference | Approximately 8.2 million Texans anticipated to travel by car; around 1.1 million expected to fly. |
| Popular Destinations | Major cities such as Dallas, Austin, and Houston. In Austin, activities like the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park and the Peppermint Parkway at the Circuit of the Americas are highlighted. |
| Travel Tips | Plan trips in advance, anticipate increased traffic, adhere to safety guidelines, and stay informed about weather conditions and potential road closures. |
| Weather Forecasts | Detailed weather forecasts for major Texas cities during the holiday period are provided. |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
