CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – The days surrounding Thanksgiving, including the day before, the day of, and the day after, are among the busiest for travel each year, especially on highways.
As millions of Americans, including many from Massachusetts, prepare for the heavy traffic, there are several tips to ensure a smoother journey during this high-travel season. A significant 89% of Thanksgiving travelers journeying over 50 miles will be doing so by car, with the majority setting off on Wednesday.
AAA advises that the best way to dodge traffic around Thanksgiving is to start early. This advice was echoed by drivers on Wednesday, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
“Traffic’s still manageable, but the roads are slick and it’s hard to see in the rain,” shared Rob from West Springfield.
“No special strategy for us; we’re just up early,” added Hanna from New York.
With an anticipated 49 million people traveling by car this week, traffic in metropolitan areas could surge by as much as 80%. While AAA has provided guidelines for optimal travel times, travelers have their own plans.
“One approach is not to travel at all, but to stay local and celebrate with family,” said one local resident.
Others are finding their journeys surprisingly smooth. “It’s been great for me; I haven’t had to drive. My husband’s handling it,” another traveler noted.
For those looking for expert travel advice:
- On Thanksgiving Day, the busiest times are between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. It’s best to leave before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
- On Friday, avoid traveling between noon and 4 p.m. The least traffic is expected before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
- Over the weekend, Saturday and Sunday’s peak hours are from 3 to 5 p.m. For the best conditions, travel before noon.
