Thanksgiving Travel: Tips to Dodge the Crowds and Weather Woes

Travel Plans

Thanksgiving is approaching, and travel plans are in full swing. Approximately 82 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from November 25 to December 1. This is a significant increase from last year, with 1.6 million more people on the move.

Driving

• 73.2 million people will be driving, up from last year.
• Avoid traveling on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons—these are the busiest times, especially in big cities.
• Best times to drive:
• Before noon on Tuesday
• 11 a.m. on Wednesday
• Return trips:
• Avoid Monday afternoon
• Sunday after Thanksgiving will be packed—plan for heavy traffic.

Flying

• 6 million people are expected to fly, a 2% increase from last year.
• Recent flight delays and cancellations may cause some travelers to reconsider.
• The FAA has reduced flights, but conditions are improving.
• Weather disruptions could still cause issues, especially around the holiday.

Weather Forecast

• Monday to Wednesday:
• Rain expected from Texas to Minnesota.
• Thanksgiving Day:
• Drier conditions, but cold temperatures, especially in the central U.S.
• Friday and Saturday:
• Better weather for those heading home.
• Watch for weekend storms.