How to Survive Thanksgiving Traffic Without Losing Your Stuffing
Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel times in America, with millions hitting the road to reunite with loved ones. While the holiday season is filled with warmth and gratitude, it also brings unique travel challenges, including heavy traffic, unpredictable weather, and the need for extra precautions.
We’ve pulled together Thanksgiving travel tips to ensure your journey is safe and stress-free, planning and preparing for anything the road might throw your way is essential.
Before you pack your bags and head out, consider these key safety tips to make your holiday travel smooth and worry-free.
Thanksgiving Week Travel Safety Tips: Be Prepared Before Hitting the Road:
- Check the Weather
- Look at the forecast for your route and destination.
- Be prepared for rain, snow, or icy conditions, especially when traveling through multiple regions.
- Inspect Your Vehicle
- Check tire pressure and tread.
- Top off fluids (oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid).
- Test your brakes and battery.
- Pack an Emergency Kit
- Include jumper cables, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks.
- If traveling in colder regions, pack snow chains and a small shovel.
- Plan Your Route
- Use GPS or map apps, or automobile associations to check for construction zones, accidents, or weather-related closures.
- Have a backup route in case of delays.
- Fuel Up Early
- Avoid running low on gas, especially if driving through remote areas or expecting heavy traffic.
- Timing Is Everything
- Leave early to avoid peak travel hours.
- Consider traveling during off-peak times, such as early morning or late evening.
- Stay Rested and Alert
- Get a good night’s sleep before your trip.
- Take breaks every 2-3 hours to stretch, hydrate, and stay focused.
- Drive Defensively
- Watch for distracted or aggressive drivers.
- Keep a safe following distance, especially in heavy traffic or bad weather.
- Secure Your Cargo
- Ensure luggage and other items are properly stored to prevent shifting or blocking visibility.
- Keep Essentials Within Reach
- Have your driver’s registration, insurance card, and roadside assistance information easily accessible.
Other Things to Remember:
Communicate Your Plans
- Let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
- Share your location through your phone for real-time tracking.
Mind COVID-19 Considerations
- Pack masks and hand sanitizer.
- Be mindful of any local health advisories or restrictions at your destination.
Prepare for Kids and Pets
- Bring snacks, activities, and comfort items for children.
- Have water, leashes, and a travel crate or seatbelt harness for pets.
Stay Connected
- Charge your phone and bring a car charger or power bank.
- Download offline maps in case of limited service.
Practice Patience
- Expect delays and remain calm.
- Remember, the goal is to arrive safely and enjoy Thanksgiving with loved ones.
TIPS: Avoid peak hours by planning your drive for earlier in the day or even on Thanksgiving morning when roads are generally quieter.
Did you know?
Most car accidents during Thanksgiving week occur on Wednesday evening, the day before Thanksgiving, as travelers rush to their destinations and locals head out for last-minute errands or festive gatherings.
A little history:
Thanksgiving travel has been a staple of American life since the holiday became nationally recognized in 1863, thanks to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. However, the phenomenon of mass Thanksgiving travel didn’t turn off until the rise of the automobile in the early 20th century, coupled with the post-World War II economic boom.
As families became more spread out across the country, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving gained a reputation as the busiest travel day of the year. Millions take to the roads, skies, and rails to spend the holiday with loved ones, creating a modern tradition of bustling highways and crowded airports that epitomizes the lengths Americans will go to for a slice of turkey and a seat at the family table.
