Navigating Thanksgiving Travel: Helpful Strategies for a Smooth Journey

The challenge of preparing a sizable Thanksgiving meal is well-known to many cooks (as depicted in “The Bear,” Season two, Episode six). However, for those attending these feasts, the journey itself can present its own set of obstacles, and unlike cooks, travelers lack a dedicated helpline like Butterball’s for their troubles.

This Thanksgiving, an estimated 55.4 million people are set to travel over 50 miles (80 kilometers) from home, a marginal increase from the previous year, as projected by AAA.

To alleviate the stress of traveling during this busy period, consider the following advice:

Strategize Your Drive for Less Traffic

Over 49 million people are expected to drive to their Thanksgiving destinations. Traffic is likely to be heaviest on Wednesday, the day preceding the holiday, especially between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., as noted by INRIX, experts in transportation data.

Megan Jones, a senior actuary at Arity, emphasizes the increased risk of accidents due to traffic congestion and distracted driving. She also warns of a surge in speeding, particularly on the Sunday following Thanksgiving, advising drivers to remain vigilant and considerate of others on the road.

Travel Tips for Families with Children

When traveling with children, it’s crucial to manage challenges like carsickness. Dr. Mona Amin, a pediatrician and parenting coach, advises against skipping meals or snacks en route, as an empty stomach can exacerbate nausea. She recommends keeping children well-fed and hydrated, limiting screen time, allowing fresh air into the car, and focusing their gaze on the horizon.

Mindful Air Travel During Busy Times

Around 4.7 million individuals are expected to fly, a 6.6% increase from last year and the highest figure since 2005, according to AAA. Sheryl Skaggs, a sociology professor, emphasizes the importance of empathy in crowded flight conditions. She encourages travelers to be patient and respectful, especially towards those who are not frequent flyers.

Skaggs, who co-authored a study on passenger misconduct, points out the significant role of alcohol consumption in disruptive behaviors. She advises passengers to be proactive in communicating with flight attendants if they observe any concerning situations.

Emotional Aspects of Thanksgiving Travel

Dr. Laura Erickson-Schroth, the chief medical officer at The Jed Foundation, notes that Thanksgiving travel can also be emotionally taxing. She suggests travelers use their journey time to mentally prepare for potential family conflicts and set strategies for maintaining their well-being during the holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Thanksgiving travel tips

More about Thanksgiving travel tips

• AAA Thanksgiving Travel Forecast
• INRIX Transportation Data
• Dr. Mona Amin
• Sheryl Skaggs, University of Texas at Dallas
• Study on Passenger Misconduct
• The Jed Foundation