AAA shares tips for record-high travel after Thanksgiving

LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – In the North-Central region, AAA estimated a record-breaking 6.3 million travelers for Thanksgiving year this year.

Road travelers reached a whopping 5.8 million and nearly 300,000 traveled by air. That’s more than 124,000 more travelers than last year.

AAA attributes much of the increase in travel to economic growth, declining inflation, and income gains. All of which was expected to boost consumer spending during the holiday season.

Apart from road and air travel, other modes of transportation also increased this year. Around the country, 2.3 million people were estimated to travel by buses, trains, and cruises. It’s a 9 percent increase from last year and an 18 percent jump since the pandemic in 2019.

If you’re planning on traveling back home Thanksgiving weekend by road or air, here are some travel tips provided by AAA:

Road Trip Tips

• Get a full vehicle inspection before setting out on your trip.
• Leave early and allow extra time to get to your destination, so you are not rushed.
• Identify alternate routes in case you encounter congestion or road closures.
• Avoid distractions while driving. Program your GPS before your drive.
• Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears their seatbelt.
• Never drive impaired.

Air Travel Tips

• Check-in early online.
• Monitor your flight status using your air carrier’s mobile app.
• Arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
• Pack medications and an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag in case your flight is delayed or canceled.

Tips for Air Travelers who Have Not Booked their Flight Yet:

• Book a flight that leaves early in the day. Flights in the afternoon and evening are more susceptible to delays and cancellations.
• Book a direct flight. Otherwise, build in extra time between connections if your first flight is delayed.
• Consider traveling on Thanksgiving Day. This could offer the best combination of availability and price.

Click here to subscribe to our 10/11 NOW daily digest and breaking news alerts delivered straight to your email inbox.

Copyright 2024 KOLN. All rights reserved.