Spirit Airlines Reveals Top Thanksgiving Travel Destinations for 2025: Budget-Friendly Beach Cities and Major U.S. Cities Lead the Way

As Thanksgiving 2025 approaches, budget-conscious travelers are flocking to beach destinations and major cities across the U.S., according to recent data from Spirit Airlines. The low-cost carrier has shared its list of the top 10 most-searched destinations for the peak travel period, which spans from November 25 to December 1, coinciding with the Thanksgiving holiday on November 27.

Despite challenges stemming from bankruptcy restructuring, including a reduction in operations, Spirit Airlines plans to operate a busy schedule over the holiday period. The airline will fly over 3 million miles and operate more than 3,200 flights during this busy travel week, catering to the high demand for Thanksgiving travel.

Top Thanksgiving Travel Destinations

The Spirit Airlines data highlights the popularity of both beachside getaways and bustling urban hubs during the Thanksgiving season. The airline’s 10 most-searched destinations include:

1. Orlando (MCO)
2. Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
3. Las Vegas (LAS)
4. Houston (IAH)
5. Detroit (DTW)
6. Atlanta (ATL)
7. Newark (EWR)
8. New York-LaGuardia (LGA)
9. San Juan (SJU)
10. Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)

The data reveals that most travelers are heading to domestic cities, primarily to visit family and friends, a trend common during the Thanksgiving holiday. Cities like Orlando and Fort Lauderdale offer warm weather, making them attractive to families looking for a relaxing holiday. At the same time, urban destinations such as Las Vegas, Houston, and New York-LaGuardia remain popular for those seeking entertainment and culture.

The Rise of Affordable International Travel

While domestic travel remains dominant, Thanksgiving can also be an excellent opportunity to score affordable international flights. A Going.com report highlights that Thanksgiving fares to international destinations are typically 10% to 30% lower compared to peak summer travel periods. This presents an ideal chance for budget-conscious travelers to explore cities in Western Europe, Canada, and Western Asia at a fraction of the usual cost.

For those looking to experience European Christmas markets or enjoy mild autumn weather, destinations like London, Stockholm, and Lisbon are among the best bets. The report mentions round-trip flights from New York to London or Stockholm for as low as $394, and from Los Angeles to Lisbon for $494.

How Thanksgiving Fares Stack Up

With many travelers seeking both local and international options for Thanksgiving, Spirit Airlines has noted that it will operate full flights throughout the week, with the busiest travel days expected to fall after Thanksgiving on Sunday, November 30 and Monday, December 1. However, while many are opting to fly domestically to visit family, the surge in affordable international travel options offers an enticing opportunity for those looking to explore new destinations.

For travelers willing to venture abroad, it’s clear that Europe and Western Asia are gaining traction for Thanksgiving 2025. Late November is an ideal time for a visit, with the added bonus of fewer crowds compared to the holiday season in December and early January. Europe’s Christmas markets, which begin in November, further enhance its appeal as a destination for holiday travelers.

What’s Next for Thanksgiving Travel?

As Spirit Airlines continues to adapt to changing market conditions, the 2025 Thanksgiving travel season stands out for its combination of budget-friendly domestic beach destinations and major U.S. cities, alongside a significant increase in international travel options. For many, the Thanksgiving holiday presents an opportunity to take a break, whether it’s spending time with loved ones or exploring a new part of the world.

Travelers looking for great deals on international flights should consider Western Europe destinations like London, Stockholm, and Lisbon, where airfare prices are lower than usual during this time. Spirit’s expanding flight network and ongoing restructuring efforts ensure that there will be plenty of options for both domestic and international travel, regardless of the destination.