The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to push down the number of Americans traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday this year by about 10%, according to AAA Travel.

That’s the largest one-year decrease since the Great Recession in 2008, which lead to a 26 percent drop in travel for the holiday.

The effects of the pandemic, including health and economic concerns, are causing many Americans to opt for last-minute and vehicular travel. Air travel and other modes of transportation such as cruises, buses, and trains are the most impacted by the pandemic, and 95% of holiday travel is expected to be by car.

“Like everything else this year, Thanksgiving in 2020 will look much different than in years past,” says Sally McCorrison, Travel. “Many Americans are weighing their options and considering the advice of health experts before finalizing their holiday travel plans.”

Mid-Atlantic Region Thanksgiving Forecast (Wednesday, Nov. 25 to Sunday, Nov. 29.)

*Region includes New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania

% Change from 2019

Automobile: 5.48 million, down 8%

Air Travel: 320,000, down 48.9%

Other (bus, train, ship, etc.): 31,000, down 77%

Region Total: 5.83 million, down 13.2%

With COVID-19 cases rising in many parts of the country, AAA East Central reminds those who choose to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday to know the risks and minimize them by taking the following steps:

• Plan ahead. Check with state and local authorities where you are, along your route, and at your planned destination to learn about local circumstances and restrictions.

• Pack Smart. Be sure to pack face masks, disinfecting wipes, and hand sanitizers.

• Minimize your risk. Use protective barriers such as plastic baggies or gloves to open doors, fill up the gas tank, or touch any other surfaces in public places. Also, try to minimize your stops, and when visiting family or friends, remember to socially distance, wear masks, and frequently wash your hands.

• Verify before you go. Call your hotels and car rental companies to ensure your reservations and clarify requirements.