Thanksgiving Travel Insights: Best and Worst Days to Fly or Drive
This Thanksgiving is anticipated to witness a historic surge in travel among Americans. According to AAA, an estimated 81.8 million travelers are expected during the holiday period, spanning from Tuesday, November 25, to Monday, December 1. This projection indicates an increase of 1.6 million travelers compared to the previous year.
Thanksgiving Travel Insights: Best and Worst Days to Fly or Drive
Air Travel Predictions
Approximately 6 million people are expected to fly within the United States over the Thanksgiving holiday. This marks a 2% increase from the previous year. Notably, Sunday, November 30, is projected to be the busiest day for air travel, with around 3.28 million domestic seats available.
- Busiest Airlines: American Airlines plans over 80,000 flights, anticipating Sunday, November 30, as the peak travel day.
- United Airlines is set to see its highest number of Thanksgiving travelers ever.
- Busiest Airports: Major airports likely to be crowded include:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport
- Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport
- Denver International Airport
Road Travel Insights
AAA expects nearly 90% of Thanksgiving travelers, or at least 73 million, to choose driving as their preferred mode of transportation. Fortunately, renting a car this Thanksgiving should be about 15% cheaper than last year.
- Busiest Days on the Roads:
- Tuesday, November 25
- Wednesday, November 26
- Sunday, November 30
- Travel Tips:
- Best times to leave before Thanksgiving:
- Before noon on November 25
- Before 11 a.m. on November 26
- Post-Thanksgiving travel:
- Before 11 a.m. on November 28
- Before 10 a.m. on November 29
- Before 11 a.m. on November 30
- After 8 p.m. on December 1
- Best times to leave before Thanksgiving:
Conclusion
This year’s Thanksgiving travel is anticipated to set new records for air and road travel. As travelers prepare for their journeys, awareness of peak travel days and times can help ensure a smoother experience.
