The American Automobile Association predicts more than 49 million people will hit the road for Thanksgiving, becoming the third busiest year recorded.
According to the AAA, more than 54.6 million people are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving. This year's prediction is a 1.5 % increase over 2021 and 98% of pre-pandemic volumes.
“Families and friends are eager to spend time together this Thanksgiving, one of the busiest for travel in the past two decades,” says Paula Twidale, AAA’s Senior Vice President of Travel. “Plan and pack your patience, whether you’re driving or flying.”
While car travel has increased by 0.4% from 2021, car travel remains 2.5% below 2019 levels. According to the AAA, air travel increased by nearly 8% over 2021, with 4.5 million Americans flying to their Thanksgiving destinations this year.
“Airport parking spaces fill up fast, so reserve a spot ahead of time and arrive early,” Twidale suggests. “Anticipate long TSA lines. If possible, avoid checking a bag to allow for more flexibility if flights are delayed or you need to reschedule.”
People are advised to travel early in the morning on Wednesday or before 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day and avoid travel between 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. According to AAA, Highways in and around Atlanta, Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles will be the busiest.
