Every year as Thanksgiving approaches, the highways and airports of America get busier than usual, but experts predict this year will set new records for holiday travel. Nearly 80 million people are expected to be on the move during this peak travel period, which runs through the weekend following Thanksgiving Day.
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), they anticipate screening about 28 million air travelers from now until the end of the holiday weekend, translating to over 2 million passengers daily. Tuesday is shaping up to be particularly hectic, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) forecasting it will be the busiest day of the season. On this day alone, we could see nearly 60,000 flights taking off across the nation, sending more than 9 million passengers through the skies.
This surge is not purely attributed to consumer enthusiasm; socioeconomic factors are also at play. “Lower gas prices and the return of travelers to their families after previously limited gatherings during holiday seasons are key drivers to the uptick,” remarks AAA spokesperson Anna Gatti. Indeed, it’s the first time since the pandemic began where people seem eager to travel freely.
Travel Trends and Insights
The rise of air travel is seen as particularly pronounced, as families reunite and people venture out to celebrate the holiday together. Last year, domestic travel reports suggested families were cautious, opting for closer destinations. This year, the sight of people jetting off to faraway cities and states reflects growing confidence and eagerness among American travelers.
AAA forecasts indicate about 71.7 million will choose to drive at least 50 miles this holiday compared to around 69 million last year. Coupled with the holiday traffic, lower gas prices have convinced many to take road trips, typical of the holiday season. Records suggest we might hit the highest road travel volume at Thanksgiving since 2005.
"Thanksgiving Day itself is typically the best choice for travelers, as it tends to have the least amount of traffic and congestion,” advises Kelly K. from The Points Guy, travel expert and influencer. “For returning home after the holiday, aim for the following Tuesday or Wednesday when traffic will be at its lowest,” suggests Kelly.
Expectations for Travel Conditions
Despite the potential travel headaches, passengers have newfound possibilities for peace of mind thanks to new regulation systems. If you face delays—by three hours for domestic flights or six for international flights—you may now have the option to receive refunds. This security measures aims to relieve stress for frustrated travelers.
Planning Ahead for Smooth TravelWhether it’s gathering with family or indulging at the often-anticipated Thanksgiving feast, it appears this season is shaping up to see more people flocking home than ever before. With stakes running high, it seems like many Americans are more eager than ever to embrace the Thanksgiving traditions they have missed during the pandemic. The roads and skies may be busy, but the joy of reunion is certainly going to fill this holiday season.
