Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Guide 2025: Storm Warnings, Traffic Trends And Essential Advice

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, the United States is gearing up for one of its busiest travel periods in recent years. Nearly 82 million Americans are expected to travel this weekend, according to new projections from the American Automobile Association (AAA), the highest number recorded in recent years. With millions preparing to drive, fly or take other modes of transport to see family and friends, a mix of weather challenges and traffic surges could shape the journey ahead. 

Several forecasts and travel advisories issued this week highlight the same message: plan ahead, stay alert, and expect crowds.

Storm Systems To Affect Key Regions Before Thanksgiving

Travel conditions may become complicated in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. Meteorologist Paul Pastelok of AccuWeather told USA TODAY that weather-related disruptions could begin as early as Monday, November 24, when a storm sweeping in from Southern California is likely to bring heavy rain and potential flooding across Central Texas.

As the system moves northeast by Tuesday, low visibility is expected in regions such as the Ohio Valley and Tennessee, where pooling water and fog may slow down both road and air traffic. By Wednesday, the storm is forecast to reach the East Coast, bringing rain to New York City, Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas. 

Sources noted that that while the rainfall may not be intense, even moderate showers could lead to visibility concerns.

Meanwhile, a northern extension of the same system is expected to drop snow across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, creating icy stretches and additional travel hazards on major routes.

Airports To See Heavy Crowds

Air travel is also set to surge this season. According to AAA, an estimated 6 million Americans will fly domestically, a 2 percent increase over 2024. While airports will be crowded throughout the holiday window, major disruptions had not been reported as of this weekend.

Travel experts continue to urge flyers to arrive early, anticipate long security lines, and consider enrolling in programs such as TSA PreCheck for smoother screening. ABC News further advises avoiding peak return travel days, typically Sunday and Monday after Thanksgiving. 

Beyond airports, other modes of transport are also seeing a boost. AAA projects that about 2.5 million travellers will rely on buses, trains, and cruises, signalling a broader return to pre-pandemic travel habits.

Road Trips Still Dominate As Gas Prices Fall

Despite the rise in air and rail travel, driving remains the most predictable and preferred option this year. Lower gas prices are a key reason. With the national average hovering around $3.00 per gallon, motorists are finding relief compared to previous holiday seasons, making long-distance drives more feasible for families.

Tips For A Smoother Holiday Journey

To navigate the travel rush more comfortably, experts recommend: 

• Leave early or late. Departing before 11 a.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday can help avoid the worst outbound congestion. For return trips, the best windows are before 10 a.m. on Friday or Saturday or after 8 p.m. on Sunday or Monday. 

• Monitor weather closely. If storms are forecast along your route, consider delaying your drive or shifting travel methods altogether. 

• Use real-time navigation tools such as INRIX to identify detours, bottlenecks and changing traffic conditions. 

• Plan ahead at airports. Arrive early, avoid peak return days and keep track of airline advisories for gate changes or delays. 

With millions of Americans looking forward to reunions, celebrations and long weekends, this year's Thanksgiving promises joy — and plenty of traffic. Whether travelling by road or air, a bit of advance planning may be the key to a calmer, safer holiday journey. 

(With inputs from various sources)

FAQs

1. What is the best time to travel for Thanksgiving 2025? 

The best time to leave is before 11 a.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday. For return travel, early mornings on Friday and Saturday or late evenings on Sunday and Monday are ideal. 

2. Will weather affect Thanksgiving travel this year? 

Yes. Forecasts indicate rain on the East Coast, snow in the Midwest, and reduced visibility in several regions, which may delay both road and air travel. 

3. How crowded will airports be for Thanksgiving 2025? 

AAA estimates 6 million passengers, making this one of the busiest Thanksgiving air travel periods. Expect long security lines and early arrivals. 

4. Are road trips popular for Thanksgiving this year? 

Yes. With gas prices around $3 per gallon, driving remains the most preferred option, with nearly 70 million Americans expected on the roads. 

5. What steps can travellers take to reduce delays? 

Monitor weather forecasts, leave during off-peak hours, use real-time navigation apps, and arrive at airports early to avoid congestion.