Tomorrow’s holiday is about giving thanks, enjoying great food and apparently traveling, as AAA projects 48.7 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home for Thanksgiving.

This is an increase of 1 million travelers compared to last year, and the holiday is seeing the most travel since 2007. What can we credit for this increase in travel? An improving economy in the second half of the year, including increased wage rates and consumer spending, allows more people to travel further than in previous years. Another contributing factor is the $28 billion travelers saved this year in gasoline. Driving remains the most popular mode of Thanksgiving travel, due in large part to the fact Thanksgiving gas prices are the second-cheapest in nearly a decade.

“One million more Americans than last year will carve out time to visit with friends and family this Thanksgiving,” said Marshall Doney, president and CEO, AAA. “Most will travel on the tried and true holiday road trip, thanks to gas prices that are holding at close to $2 per gallon. Others will fly, take the bus or set off on a cruise to celebrate with their loved ones.”

Following the 89 percent of people hitting the road for Thanksgiving, air travel is expected to increase 1.6 percent and travel by other modes is expected to increase also, with 1.44 million travelers taking buses, trains or other means of public transportation.

Where are all of these people traveling? According to AAA, this year’s top destinations for Thanksgiving travel are largely West Coast cities, including San Francisco and San Diego. Other top destinations include Las Vegas, Orlando, Seattle and New Orleans.

Whether you’re hitting the road, boarding a flight or staying home this Thanksgiving, we wish you a safe and happy holiday.

Are you traveling this Thanksgiving or avoiding the hassle? If you are traveling, email us and let us know about your travel experience. Please include your full name and location with your email.