Thanksgiving Travel

Millions of people travel all around the country to be with family on Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, it's not very fun to get stuck in the traveling chaos. Whether you plan on driving or flying, some good planning can help make the traveling easier.

Start packing lists and even packing the week before to avoid the stress of getting everything together at the last minute. If you have kids, give them their own packing lists. They can go ahead and do their best packing, and then you can check through their stuff and help them pack what they have missed.

If you are flying, consider flying on Thanksgiving morning. Most people avoid traveling on the actual holiday, so the airports will be a lot less busy and less stressful. Often tickets are even cheaper on actual Thanksgiving Day as well. However, don't fly out too late in the day—you don't want to miss the holiday's festivities because your flight was delayed! Another option is to beat the rush and fly out earlier in the week if possible.

If you don't like the idea of flying on Thanksgiving Day, you can still ease the stress of traveling by planning ahead. Make sure you get to the airport even earlier than you would get there for a flight. The days before and after Thanksgiving are some of the year's busiest at the airport. Consider even getting to the airport ninety minutes to an hour longer than you would normally get there. There are bound to be delays parking, checking in, and getting through security. Getting there early will help ensure peace of mind, and you won't have to worry about the possibility of missing your flight. Depending on where you live, traffic on the way to the airport might even be worse than normal, so allow extra time for that as well.

To speed up the airport process, make sure you are prepared. Check-in for your flight online (up to twenty-four hours before your flight time), and make sure your photo ID is handy. Wear shoes that slip off easily and avoid excessive jewelry so you can get through security quickly. Make sure you are following security policies, such as carry-on liquids being in a separate bag, so that you won't risk the chance of missing your flight.

Even if you aren't flying, driving will go more smoothly if you plan it out before. If you have kids make sure to bring snacks and games to help occupy them in the car. Also, take frequent bathroom breaks so everyone has a chance to stretch their legs and stay happier.

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