A record-breaking 79.9 million Americans are expected to travel for Thanksgiving this year, causing heavy traffic across the country. Of these, 71.7 million will travel by car, an increase of 1.3 million drivers compared to last year, according to AAA. Travel will be busiest on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, with Thanksgiving Day itself being the best time to avoid crowds. Weather conditions, such as rain and snow, may further complicate travel plans.
Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX, advised drivers to use traffic apps and local news alerts to navigate potential delays, especially in major cities like Boston, New York, LA, Seattle, and Washington, DC, where traffic is expected to be more than twice the usual volume.
For those who must travel on peak days, leaving in the morning before Thanksgiving or after 1 p.m. on Black Friday could help avoid the worst of the congestion. Travelers should also aim to leave before 1 p.m. on the weekend following Thanksgiving, or either before 8 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2.
Though leaving early may seem appealing, traveling on the Friday before Thanksgiving is often the busiest time, particularly between 1 and 2 p.m. Gas stations are also crowded around 4 to 5 p.m. on Fridays, so it’s better to fill up in the morning or on Sunday around 7 to 8 a.m.
Amanda Leicht Moore, director of product at Google Maps, hopes these tips will help travelers avoid stress and enjoy more time with their loved ones during the holiday season.
