The Best and Worst Days to Drive for Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving holiday is known for its celebration, feasting, and, for many, significant travel. This year, the forecasts from Triple-A indicate a record-breaking Thanksgiving travel season, with nearly 82 million Americans planning to hit the roads, skies, and rails. With traffic expected to surge, understanding the best and worst days to drive for Thanksgiving can save you time and frustration.

Travel Statistics You Should Know

According to the latest data, about 73.3 million travelers will be driving this Thanksgiving. Moreover, approximately 6 million will take to the air, while around 2.5 million will utilize public transport methods such as buses and trains. This marks an increase from last year’s travel figures, which can be found in detail from sources like ABC News.

When Not to Hit the Road

If you’re planning on traveling during Thanksgiving, it’s crucial to avoid specific times to reduce the likelihood of encountering heavy traffic. The worst days to drive typically fall around:

Tuesday Before Thanksgiving: From noon to 9:00 PM.
Wednesday Before Thanksgiving: From 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

On your return trip, prepare for the busiest days such as:

Sunday Following Thanksgiving: Between 11:00 AM and 8:00 PM.
Monday After Thanksgiving: From noon to 8:00 PM, which also coincides with regular commuter traffic.

The Optimal Day for Travel

The good news is that the best day to drive for Thanksgiving is actually the holiday itself, Thursday. Historically, Thanksgiving sees less traffic, making it an excellent choice for those who can travel on the day before the festivities.

Rental Insights and Fuel Costs

If you’re planning to rent a vehicle, keep in mind that the most popular rental day will be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. As per Hertz’s estimates, expect high demand and reserve your vehicle early. On the brighter side, domestic car rental rates have dropped by an impressive 15% compared to last year, which could ease some travel expenses. Additionally, drivers can anticipate gas prices to be similar to last year’s average of approximately $3.06 per gallon, slightly fluctuating depending on the location.

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Journey

To ensure a stress-free travel experience this Thanksgiving, consider leaving early on Thursday or planning your return on less trafficked days. Carefully mapping out your travel times can significantly improve your journey and allow you to focus on what truly matters: spending time with loved ones and enjoying the holiday festivities.

For specific information and the latest travel tips, you may find additional insights from reliable sources such as Triple-A.