Thanksgiving Travel Forecast: Storms and Record Crowds to Disrupt Holiday Journeys

Millions of Americans are preparing for Thanksgiving travel amid a complex weather picture. The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects nearly 82 million people will journey 50 miles or more. This marks one of the highest travel volumes in recent years.

Travelers face potential disruptions from a significant storm system. The system is forecast to move across the country in the days leading up to the holiday.

Multi-Region Storm System Threatens Key Routes

A major storm is expected to develop early in the holiday week. According to AccuWeather analysis provided to USA TODAY, the system will first bring heavy rain to Southern California and Central Texas. This could lead to flooding concerns on Monday and Tuesday.

The storm will then track north and east. It is likely to cause low visibility and pooling water in the Ohio Valley and Tennessee. By Wednesday, rain is forecast for major East Coast hubs like New York City and Washington, D.C.

A separate northern branch of this system may drop snow. The Northern Plains and Upper Midwest could see icy roads and reduced visibility. This dual-threat storm complicates travel for both cross-country and regional trips.

Record Numbers Choose Roads and Skies

Despite the forecast, travel numbers are robust. AAA data indicates a strong preference for driving this Thanksgiving. Lower national average gasoline prices, around $3.00 per gallon, are providing some financial relief for motorists.

Air travel is also seeing an uptick. Approximately 6 million people are expected to fly domestically. This is a slight increase compared to last year’s figures.

Other transport modes are gaining popularity. AAA projects about 2.5 million travelers will use buses, trains, or cruises. The overall trend points to a busy and crowded travel period across all infrastructures.

Expert Tips for Navigating the Chaos

Timing is critical for a smoother trip. Experts advise departing before 11 a.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday to minimize delays. For the return journey, leaving before 10 a.m. on Friday or Saturday, or after 8 p.m. on Sunday or Monday, is recommended.

Flexibility is the most important tool for travelers. An AAA spokesperson emphasized this point in a USA TODAY interview. If weather is severe, travelers should consider delaying their departure by a few hours or even a full day.

Staying informed is essential. Using traffic apps for real-time road conditions and enrolling in TSA PreCheck for flyers can save valuable time. Travelers should monitor weather updates closely and be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly.

Navigating the bustling holiday requires a solid plan and a flexible attitude. This Thanksgiving travel forecast highlights the challenges ahead. A proactive approach is the best recipe for a safe and timely arrival.

Dropping this nugget your way

What are the worst days to travel for Thanksgiving 2025?

Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the following Sunday are typically the most congested. Peak traffic occurs during the late afternoon on these days. Traveling on off-peak days like Thanksgiving morning itself can be much smoother.

How is the weather affecting flights?

As of now, no major nationwide flight disruptions are reported. The storm system could cause delays at East Coast and Midwest hubs later in the week. Airlines may issue travel waivers, allowing passengers to rebook without fees.

Are gas prices lower this year?

Yes, the national average is around $3.00 per gallon. This offers some relief at the pump compared to recent years. Lower fuel costs are a factor in the high number of projected road trips.

What is the best time to drive to avoid traffic?

The best times are early in the morning or later in the evening. Aim to leave before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m. on peak travel days. Avoiding the midday and afternoon rush is key.

How many people are flying for Thanksgiving?

AAA projects about 6 million domestic flyers. This is a 2% increase from the previous year. Airports will be very busy, so arriving early is strongly advised.