AAA projects record-breaking Thanksgiving travel week; here’s what you need to know

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – AAA has once again projected holiday travel this year to outperform previous years domestically.

The travel association says they expect nearly six million people to fly, while 74 million will hit the roads. To qualify, the person is expected to travel 50 miles or further from their home.

“Really is looking like it’s going to be a record holiday travel season,” CEO and Founder of Points Path Julian Kheel said.

Travel experts like Kheel expect possible delays, cancellations, and traffic woes as countless Americans head to their destination for the holiday.

“I’m so happy that everything is coming back, people are happy, feel safe and are going places,” traveler Patricia Grande said.

One of the big tips travelers WSMV talked to recommended to those flying?

“Pack light,” traveler Kim Mohr said.

Another tip that people and experts recommended for both forms of travel is leaving early.

“Leave yourself some extra time and bring a lot of patience,” Kheel said.

“Bump it up by like an hour or two,” traveler Renee Weisz recommended.

Kheel says if you do have a flight cancellation, you should immediately look for a new flight on your own.

“Be proactive,” Kheel said. “Don’t wait for the airline to rebook you or to tell you what they think their options are.”

As for the roadways, Kheel says get on the road during non-peak hours.

Good news for those traveling by car, gas averages are actually down from where they were at this point last year.

Make sure to keep an eye on road conditions and always pack emergency items in your car in case you’re stuck in traffic for extended periods of time.

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