Navigating Thanksgiving Travel: Tips to Tame the Holiday Rush

Mon Nov 24 2025 16:29:53 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Thanksgiving approaches, experts share tips for travelers to navigate the busy holiday season effectively, despite potential weather challenges and crowded airports.

Travelers preparing for Thanksgiving should brace for heavy traffic and packed airports as the Federal Aviation Administration forecasts its busiest travel week in 15 years. With over 360,000 flights scheduled and TSA screening over 17.8 million travelers, it's vital to prepare for potential winter weather delays. Experts suggest checking the weather regularly, packing smartly, and leaving early to manage stress during the busiest travel time of the year.

The upcoming Thanksgiving holiday is set to bring lots of travelers to airports and roads, with experts advising on how to prepare for what is expected to be a busy week. With the lifting of major flight restrictions a week prior, this Thanksgiving marks a return to normalcy for air travel, and the Federal Aviation Administration anticipates its busiest week in 15 years, scheduling over 360,000 flights between Monday and next Tuesday.

Sheldon H. Jacobson, an expert in airport operations, encourages travelers to prepare for the influx by identifying potential strategies to cope with delays or cancellations due to winter weather.

Travel Traffic Forecast

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) estimates that around 17.8 million travelers will pass through its checkpoints during this busy travel week. According to AAA, there will also be a substantial increase in road travelers, with approximately 1.3 million more hitting the road compared to last year — bringing the total to around 73 million car travelers.

Weather Preparedness

While travelers can't control winter weather, they can control their plans in the event of storms. James Belanger, vice president at the Weather Company, suggests regularly checking forecasts to stay informed about potential weather impacts on travel routes. The Weather Channel provides a weekly forecast highlighting key travel areas that may face severe weather.

Notably, the FAA expects its busiest day to fall on Tuesday with over 52,000 scheduled flights, while weather forecasters predict rain could disrupt travels across several major U.S. airports.

Packing Tips

When it comes to packing, Jacobson suggests a thorough check of belongings to ensure no TSA-restricted items remain in bags. If you're bringing gifts, consider wrapping them at your destination to avoid delays during security screening. Understanding weather conditions is critical; check the feels like temperature to ensure you pack appropriately.

Travelers should also ensure they have a REAL ID compliant identification or accepted ID such as a passport for U.S. flights. States increasingly allow mobile IDs on iPhones, facilitating smoother check-ins.

Road Trip Considerations

If driving is the chosen mode of transport, AAA emphasizes the importance of vehicle maintenance, tire pressure, and having a full tank of gas to avoid roadside issues. Data shows that Wednesday will see heavier traffic between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., particularly from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Be an Informed Passenger

Jacobson reminds travelers that being informed can significantly ease stress; download your airline's app to monitor flight statuses and adjust plans if necessary. Early departures can help mitigate anxieties related to crowds or weather, allowing for a calmer travel experience this holiday season.