Thanksgiving Travel Chaos: Experts Reveal Must-Know Tips for Smooth Journeys Across the US!

Published on November 25, 2025

The excitement of the holiday season is often mixed with the stress of travel, especially during Thanksgiving when millions of Americans take to the skies, roads, and rails. With the recent turbulence caused by the longest U.S. government shutdown still fresh in many travelers’ minds, experts emphasize the importance of preparing for the usual Thanksgiving travel rush, which is compounded by winter weather, heavy traffic, and crowded airports. However, there are practical steps travelers can take to minimize stress and make their journeys more manageable.

The Thanksgiving Travel Rush: What to Expect

Travel forecasts are predicting another record-breaking Thanksgiving travel period this year, with airports, highways, and trains expected to be busier than usual. More than 360,000 flights are scheduled between Monday and Tuesday, marking one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel weeks in 15 years. This will result in more than 17.8 million people passing through airport security, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Sheldon H. Jacobson, an expert on airport and airline operations, points out that although the effects of the government shutdown have been resolved, travelers should focus on what they can control. He advises that understanding how to navigate the crowds and delays is key to a smoother travel experience.

Travel by Air: Preparing for the Sky-high Crowds

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reassured passengers that air traffic controller staffing levels have stabilized, which is expected to help ensure smoother operations during the busy travel period. Despite this, travelers should remain aware that air travel will still be hectic. The FAA is preparing for its busiest Thanksgiving on record, with a significant volume of flights scheduled. On the busiest day, Tuesday, more than 52,000 flights are expected to take place. Airports in major cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, New York, and Washington, D.C. are likely to experience significant delays.

AAA has projected an increase of 1.3 million more travelers on the roads this year, pushing the total number of people traveling by car to at least 73 million. The combination of heavy air traffic and a high number of road travelers means that everyone will need to plan ahead and remain patient.

Bracing for Winter Weather: What Travelers Should Know

While travelers can’t control the weather, preparing for potential disruptions due to winter storms can help alleviate some of the stress. The Weather Channel has released a Thanksgiving forecast highlighting areas most likely to be affected by adverse weather conditions, including snow, rain, and ice. If a storm causes flight cancellations or delays, travelers should have contingency plans in place. Will they drive instead? Or will they postpone or even cancel their trip? Understanding these options before heading out can reduce the frustration caused by unexpected weather-related disruptions.

The forecast predicts severe weather in some regions, with the possibility of flooding rain and thunderstorms expected from Texas to Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. On the busiest travel day, Tuesday, forecasters expect rain in the Pacific Northwest and much of the eastern U.S., potentially affecting major airports. Additionally, another winter storm is predicted to develop over the central U.S. later in the week, adding to the complexity of Thanksgiving travel.

Smart Packing for Holiday Travel

When it comes to preparing for travel, packing is an essential part of the process. Jacobson, whose research helped design TSA PreCheck, recommends taking an extra step before packing: unpacking. By checking every pocket for items like full-sized bottles of liquid, which are prohibited by TSA, travelers can avoid delays and move through security faster. Airports are expected to be especially crowded, so this simple task can make a significant difference in reducing time spent at security checkpoints.

If bringing gifts, travelers are advised to wrap them after reaching their destination, as TSA agents may need to open packages for inspection. Additionally, checking the “feels like” temperature for your destination can help in packing clothing that will keep you comfortable, especially for those not accustomed to colder weather.

Another critical item to pack is identification. Starting October 1, 2021, U.S. travelers must present a REAL ID to board domestic flights. If they do not have one, a passport or military ID will be accepted instead. For those with iPhones, the option to add passport details to Apple Wallet provides a convenient and modern alternative, as many airports now accept mobile IDs for checkpoint scanning.

Ready for the Road: Preparing for a Thanksgiving Road Trip

For those opting to drive, AAA recommends ensuring your car is in good condition before setting off. This includes checking the tires, car battery, and fluid levels. Having a full tank of gas before hitting the road is also advisable, as AAA’s data shows that drivers frequently encounter road emergencies, such as dead batteries and flat tires, during the Thanksgiving period.

Traffic will be heavier than usual, and Google Maps analysis indicates the busiest travel times. On Wednesday, traffic is expected to be 14% heavier than usual, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with peak congestion between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. On Thanksgiving Day, the heaviest traffic will occur between noon and 3 p.m., as travelers make their way to their destinations. For those heading home on the weekend, the roads will again be busiest between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The Informed Traveler: Tips for a Stress-Free Experience

As Jacobson often says, the best passenger is an informed passenger. With this in mind, travelers are advised to download their airline’s app to track flight statuses and get real-time updates. This can be especially useful if a flight is canceled or delayed, allowing passengers to quickly search for alternative routes or solutions.

For those driving, it’s essential to leave earlier than expected to ensure plenty of time to reach the destination. Rushing at the last minute can exacerbate travel anxiety, especially if other factors, such as weather or security delays, come into play.

In the end, Jacobson emphasizes that while there are many external factors beyond a traveler’s control, simple planning can make all the difference. By following these tips, travelers can reduce the stress associated with the Thanksgiving rush and enjoy a smoother holiday experience.