As Thanksgiving approaches, AAA forecasts a record travel period this year. An estimated 81.8 million people will travel at least 50 miles between the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and the end of the holiday weekend. This figure represents an increase of 1.6 million travelers compared to the previous year.
Thanksgiving Travel Insights
AAA anticipates that approximately 73 million individuals, or about 90 percent of all travelers, will take to the roads. This number may rise if air travel interruptions lead more people to drive instead.
Air Travel Situation
The Federal Aviation Administration recently lifted flight restrictions affecting 40 major airports, including Boston’s Logan International Airport. This change comes after a series of recent flight cancellations, which could influence travelers’ decisions.
Peak Travel Times
According to AAA, road congestion is expected to peak during the following times:
- Tuesday afternoon through early evening
- Wednesday from midmorning to late afternoon
- Thursday morning along Route 3 south towards Cape Cod
Traffic on Thanksgiving Day will generally be light, except for those traveling to Cape Cod. The return trip is projected to cause significant delays from Friday, November 28, to Monday, December 1.
Travel Costs
Travelers will find gas prices similar to last year’s rates, with the national average around $3.06 per gallon on Thanksgiving Day. Meanwhile, around 6 million Americans are expected to fly domestically this holiday, marking a 2 percent increase from 2022. Roundtrip flight costs are averaging approximately $700, similar to last year, but Thanksgiving Day flights are notably more affordable.
Recommendations for Travelers
- Hit the road early on Tuesday and Wednesday to avoid afternoon congestion.
- For return trips, consider early morning departures on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
- Delaying returns until after 8 p.m. on Monday can also help reduce travel time.
Travelers are encouraged to plan accordingly to ensure a smooth Thanksgiving journey.