In the days leading up to Thanksgiving tens of millions of Americans are expected to travel, leaving roads in some of the nation’s largest cities congested with travelers.
“Families and friends are eager to spend time together this Thanksgiving, one of the busiest for travel in the past two decades,” says Paula Twidale, AAA’s Senior Vice President of Travel. “Plan ahead and pack your patience, whether you’re driving or flying.”
This year AAA predicts 54.6 million people will travel at least 50 miles from their homes this Thanksgiving, a 1.5% increase from 2021. The majority of travelers are expected to be drivers. AAA expects 49 million motorists are expected to hit the roads this holiday season.
INRIX, a private company specializing in traffic data, suggests drivers travel early Wednesday morning or before 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day for the easiest commute. Meanwhile, INRIX, warns travelers to avoid travel between 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. on Fridays and the weekends.
INRIX, a private company specializing in traffic data, suggests drivers travel early Wednesday morning or before 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day for the easiest commute.
Travelers in Boston who are driving down certain portions of I-93 South can expect to see a roughly 75% increase in traffic on Nov. 23, AAA predicts. Meanwhile, drivers traveling down I-93 South from Albany Street to MA-24 should see about a 50% increase in traffic on Nov. 23 from 2:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., the organization said.
“Thanksgiving is one of the busiest holidays for road trips, and this year will be no different,” say Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst for INRIX. “Although travel times will peak on Wednesday afternoon nationally, travelers should expect much heavier than normal congestion throughout the holiday weekend. Knowing when and where congestion will build can help drivers avoid the stress of sitting in traffic.”