Planning Your Thanksgiving Travel: Tips and Insights
As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans prepare to journey home to celebrate with family and friends. Thanksgiving travel is expected to reach record levels this year, with AAA predicting around 82 million travelers. Among them, nearly 73.3 million will hit the road, which means you need to plan carefully to avoid heavy traffic and high costs.
Know the Worst Days for Thanksgiving Travel
When it comes to Thanksgiving travel, timing is crucial. The worst days to drive typically fall on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday and Monday after. According to traffic predictions from AAA, the following times are notoriously congested:
- Tuesday, November 21: Noon to 9:00 P.M.
- Wednesday, November 22: 11:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
- Sunday, November 26: 11:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
- Monday, November 27: Noon to 8:00 P.M.
This congestion is exacerbated by regular commuter traffic, especially on the Monday after the holiday. Make sure to plan your departure well in advance to avoid these peak travel times.
Best Day to Drive and What to Expect
The best day to drive for your Thanksgiving travel plans is undoubtedly Thanksgiving Day itself, as traffic is usually lighter. You can enjoy a smoother journey if you leave early in the day. However, make sure to have all your necessary stops planned and consider that many gas stations may close early on the holiday.
Car Rentals and Fuel Costs
If you’re considering a rental car for your Thanksgiving travel, it’s important to note that Wednesday before Thanksgiving tends to be the busiest day for vehicle pick-ups. However, there’s some good news for travelers: current car rental rates are down by 15% compared to last year, which may help you save on costs.
Regarding fuel prices, expect them to be similar to last year’s national average of $3.06 per gallon, although prices currently may be slightly higher. It’s worthwhile to check local gas prices before your trip to maximize savings.
Final Thoughts on Thanksgiving Travel
With the number of travelers on the rise, planning is key to a stress-free Thanksgiving travel experience. Keep these traffic predictions in mind, and consider driving on less congested days to make the most of your holiday.
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