PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — As Thanksgiving approaches, travel activity is set to intensify starting today, with a noticeable increase in both road and airport traffic due to the holiday surge.

However, travelers may face challenges as a nationwide storm coincides with this week of record-high travel.

This year’s Thanksgiving travel wave marks a significant uptick from last year, with more people venturing out for the holiday. According to the Allegheny County Airport Authority, from today until Monday, the Pittsburgh area expects to accommodate 234,156 seats, reflecting the passenger count passing through the terminal, as flights are typically at full capacity during this period.

This represents a 17% increase from the previous year. The TSA is preparing to screen over 30 million travelers across the country, with the peak days being today, tomorrow, and Sunday.

Those traveling through Pittsburgh International Airport this week should plan to arrive two hours early, particularly for morning departures, which are the busiest.

Regarding what holiday items are allowed in carry-on luggage, TSA permits baked goods such as pies, cakes, and brownies. Passengers can also bring casseroles, fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices on board. However, items like cranberry sauce, liquid beverages (including wine and champagne), canned fruits or vegetables, and other preserves should be packed in checked baggage.