Experts predict a record-breaking Thanksgiving travel season, urging travelers to prepare for unprecedented crowds, potential winter weather, and heavy traffic. Learn essential tips to navigate airports, roads, and pack smart for a smoother holiday journey.
This Thanksgiving is poised to be one of the busiest travel periods in years, with the FAA anticipating over 360,000 flights and 17.8 million airport screenings, while AAA projects 73 million people will travel by car. While the past government shutdown is no longer a factor, travelers must prepare for the usual holiday crush of winter weather, heavy traffic, and crowded airports. Key advice includes monitoring weather forecasts, as rain and snow are expected across various regions, potentially impacting major airports and highways, including Atlanta, Chicago, and parts of the Midwest. For air travel, experts recommend checking pockets for TSA-restricted items, wrapping gifts at your destination, and ensuring you have a REAL ID or accepted alternative. For road trips, AAA advises checking vehicle maintenance (tires, battery, fluids) and fueling up early to avoid peak traffic times, which Google Maps predicts will be heaviest Wednesday afternoon, Thanksgiving Day noon-3 pm, and Saturday/Sunday noon-3 pm for return trips. Regardless of travel mode, downloading airline apps for flight status, leaving earlier than planned, and being an 'informed passenger' are crucial for reducing stress and navigating the holiday travel chaos.
