This year’s Thanksgiving travel season promises to be a challenge for transportation networks. Roadways will be filled with millions of cars, while airports will see an uptick in flight activity, setting the stage for the busiest travel time of 2025. This surge, driven by both pent-up demand and long-standing travel habits, highlights the increasing importance of planning and preparation for travelers hoping to avoid disruptions.
Heavy Road Traffic Expected to Peak
According to AAA, approximately 73 million Americans will be driving to their Thanksgiving destinations, a figure that drives home just how crucial the roadways will be. With such a large number of drivers on the move, congestion is expected to reach its peak on Tuesday, Nov. 25, between noon and 9 p.m., followed by Wednesday, Nov. 26, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. These peak hours could result in significant delays for drivers as they head to family gatherings, making early departures or late-night travel a strategy for those hoping to avoid the worst of the congestion.
“Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday of them all when it comes to travel,” said Aixa Diaz, spokesperson for AAA. The advice for drivers is simple: plan ahead. They recommend leaving earlier in the day, packing an emergency kit, and checking the vehicle’s tire pressure and battery to ensure a smooth journey. While some travelers might seek an alternative to driving, others may opt to rent a car. AAA reports that car rental bookings are up in key cities, with Orlando, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Newark leading the demand.
In addition, gas prices are predicted to stay relatively stable compared to last year, with a national average of $3.02 per gallon, a slight improvement compared to previous years. The overall cost of fuel should offer some relief for those traveling by car, especially given the rising costs of air travel.
Airports Bracing for Crowded Skies
Flying this Thanksgiving will also require patience. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), more than 360,000 flights are scheduled for the holiday period, making it the busiest travel season for airlines in 15 years. Nov. 25 is expected to be the heaviest travel day for air passengers, with over 52,000 flights departing across the nation.
Despite the overwhelming numbers, the FAA is optimistic about its ability to handle the surge, with solid staffing levels expected to manage the influx of travelers. “We are ready for the holiday rush and take pride in helping travelers reach their friends and families during this important time of year.” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. However, air travelers should be prepared for possible delays, as airlines continue to face challenges, such as staffing shortages and unpredictable weather, which could lead to cancellations.
For those looking to avoid the worst of the crowds, flying on Thanksgiving Day itself may offer a slight reprieve, with fewer people traveling and lower ticket prices. Conversely, flights on the Sunday and Monday after Thanksgiving are expected to be the busiest and most expensive, as millions of people head home. Flexible travel plans and early-morning departures remain the best options for avoiding lengthy delays.
