Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and this year, travelers are bracing themselves for what’s shaping up to be one of the busiest travel seasons yet. With millions of people planning to hit the road or take to the skies to reunite with family and friends, anticipation is building—and so are the expected delays.
Airports across the country are preparing for record-breaking crowds. For example, Savannah Hilton Head International Airport is expecting to see more than 70,000 passengers this Thanksgiving, which marks a 10% increase compared to last year. Similarly, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) anticipates hosting approximately 6.3 million travelers between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, up 15% from last year.
According to AAA, nearly 80 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more for the holiday, reflecting figures from previous years which have consistently shown more people choosing to travel. Air travel is up significantly, with around 5.8 million people flying this Thanksgiving, representing an 11% increase over the same period last year. It's clear this surge is tied to more than just holiday cheer; low fuel prices and increased flight availability are also contributing factors.
But it’s not just costs and convenience driving the uptick. The National Association of Realtors suggests more Americans are relocating farther from their families for work, leading to longer journeys back home for the holidays. Indeed, research shows the median distance moved has increased dramatically over the past few decades, now averaging around 50 miles.
For those planning on driving, AAA estimates nearly 72 million motorists will hit the roads between Tuesday and Monday, which can be overwhelming. INRIX, which provides transportation data, has pinpointed Tuesday, November 26, and Wednesday afternoon, November 27, as the worst travel times, urging drivers to plan accordingly. Thanksgiving Day itself appears to be the most favorable time for travel, and for anyone returning home on the following Sunday, it’s best to set out early—before the traffic builds.
Those flying out of major hubs like Atlanta should also be strategic. Atlanta has emerged as one of the cities with the highest demand for rental vehicles this holiday season. AAA, which partners with Hertz for car rentals, emphasizes the importance of making advance reservations to secure your ride.
At the airports, travelers are encouraged to arrive at least two to three hours early, particularly during peak hours, to navigate security and potential delays. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen approximately 18.3 million airline passengers this holiday period, marking another record rise. This year, specific foods like gravy and cranberry sauce must be packed carefully as TSA regulations require anything over 3.4 ounces to go in checked luggage.
And for those opting for public transit or ridesharing services, like Uber’s recently revived shared-ride feature, know this: it can help save on costs but may also lead to longer wait times as demand surges.
Meanwhile, back east, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is facing its potential disruptions from labor disputes. Service workers at CLT have voted to strike for at least 24 hours during the busy holiday travel period as they push for higher wages, raising concerns about wait times and airport operations. These workers include cabin cleaners and other contractors not directly employed by major airlines, so the precise impact remains uncertain.
The workers’ demands have been increased alongside rising living costs, with reports of some employees facing homelessness or severe financial strain. With nearly 1.02 million passengers projected to pass through Charlotte’s airport over Thanksgiving, travelers are urged to stay updated on any changes or delays.
For savvy travelers, there are additional tips beyond timing and transportation. Packing light can save time at baggage claim, and using techniques like packing cubes can keep your carry-on organized. Experts recommend coordinating outfits and sticking to essentials to avoid baggage fees entirely. If checked baggage does go missing, tracking systems are available to help locate lost items quicker. Knowing your rights as a passenger is also key, especially with new regulations making it easier to secure refunds if flights are significantly altered.
Rental car users should double-check their insurance agreements, as many have coverage from personal auto insurance or credit cards but might pay extra for unnecessary policies. Keeping documentation, like taking photos of fuel gauges when returning, can help avoid surprise charges.
With all of these preparations and tips, travelers can hope to minimize stress and maximize holiday joy. Amid the crowded terminals and congested roadways, the spirit of thanksgiving and reunion drives the holiday hustle. Whether you’re traveling by car, train, or plane, planning can make all the difference, ensuring everyone arrives safely to enjoy turkey and family.
Nothing quite compares to the tradition of gathering with loved ones, and even as the logistics become more complex, the essence of the holiday remains the same. Here’s wishing safe travels to everyone as they make their way, whether to grandma's house or somewhere new this Thanksgiving season!
