Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of year. I look forward to spending time with my family, enjoying delicious food, and embracing the quiet joy of gratitude. Whether you’re gathering around a table or heading out on a new adventure, the holiday always feels like a pause worth protecting. And for many of us, that means hitting the road.
According to AAA, a record-breaking 81.8 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Tuesday, November 25, and Monday, December 1, making this the busiest Thanksgiving travel week on record. Nearly 90% of those travelers — about 73 million people — will drive, while another 6 million will fly and 2.5 million will take buses, trains, or cruises.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Miles with McConkey.
🛣️ When to Drive for Thanksgiving 2025: AAA’s Best and Worst Times
If you’re planning to drive, timing is everything. According to AAA’s forecast, the days leading up to Thanksgiving are expected to be especially busy, with millions of travelers hitting the road to visit family and friends. Here’s a quick look at the best and worst times to drive before the holiday:
| Date | Worst Time to Drive | Best Time to Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Tues, Nov 25 | 12 PM – 9 PM | Before 12 PM |
| Wed, Nov 26 | 11 AM – 8 PM | Before 11 AM |
| Thurs, Nov 27 | Minimal traffic impact | — |
AAA also warns of heavy congestion in major metro corridors. The worst backups are expected on routes like New York to the Hamptons (163% longer than usual), D.C. to Baltimore (166%), and L.A. to Bakersfield (147%).
🚗 When to Head Home: Return Travel Timing for Thanksgiving 2025
Whether you’re wrapping up a weekend with loved ones or heading back early to beat the rush, return travel timing can make or break your experience. AAA expects traffic to build again starting Friday afternoon and peak on Sunday and Monday, especially in metro areas and along major interstates.
Here’s a breakdown of the best and worst times to drive after Thanksgiving:
| Date | Worst Time to Drive | Best Time to Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Fri, Nov 28 | 1 PM – 7 PM | Before 11 AM |
| Sat, Nov 29 | 1 PM – 8 PM | Before 10 AM |
| Sun, Nov 30 | 11 AM – 8 PM | Before 11 AM |
| Mon, Dec 1 | 12 PM – 8 PM | After 8 PM |
I’ve learned the hard way that leaving at noon on Sunday means sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic with restless kids and lukewarm coffee. Now, I aim for early departures, even if it means packing the night before and grabbing breakfast on the road.
✈️ Flying This Year? Here’s What to Know
If you’re skipping the road trip and heading to the airport instead, AAA expects 6 million travelers to fly this Thanksgiving — a 2% increase from last year. The average round-trip fare is around $700, and return timing can significantly impact both cost and stress levels.
- Cheapest day to fly: Thanksgiving Day itself
- Most expensive return days: Sunday and Monday
- Pro tip: If you’re flexible, consider flying home early Friday or late Monday night to save money and avoid crowds.
Prefer a slower, scenic journey? My Amtrak route guide breaks down train travel options that skip the TSA line and offer a more relaxed holiday vibe.
💡 Scott’s Travel Tips for a Smoother Ride
If you’re road-tripping this Thanksgiving, here are a few things I always do to make the journey smoother — and a little more joyful:
- Fuel up the night before so you’re not scrambling in the morning.
- Pack early: clothes, snacks, chargers, and anything the kids might need.
- Leave early to beat the rush and give yourself breathing room.
- Bring snacks and water. Traffic is easier to handle when you’re not hangry.
- Crank the playlist. I lean into Christmas tunes to kick off the season.
- Keep the kids entertained with games, audiobooks, or activity kits.
- Use a GPS or traffic app to reroute around unexpected slowdowns.
- Take breaks. Even a 10-minute stretch can reset your energy.
- Don’t forget jumper cables. AAA expects a spike in roadside calls for dead batteries, flat tires, and empty tanks.
❄️ Thinking Beyond Thanksgiving? Plan a Winter Escape
Julie and I love traveling in winter. The crowds are thinner, the pace is slower, and even a short trip makes the long season feel a little brighter. If you’re already dreaming beyond Thanksgiving, now’s a great time to plan a cozy getaway.
Whether you’re drawn to twinkling lights and festive stalls or quiet cabins and snow-dusted trails, I’ve rounded up a few ideas to inspire your next adventure:
- 8 Magical Christmas Markets in the U.S. — perfect for sipping cocoa, shopping local, and soaking up holiday cheer
- 50 Cozy Towns for a Winter Getaway — from mountain escapes to small-town charm, these spots are worth bundling up for
Even if you’re staying close to home for Thanksgiving, having something to look forward to in December or January can make all the difference.
🧭 Still Undecided for Thanksgiving?
If you’re still undecided about your holiday plans, I’ve rounded up some great places to travel for Thanksgiving, from fall color and festive charm to warm-weather escapes. Whether you’re staying local or open to a last-minute adventure, there’s still time to plan something memorable.
Wherever you’re headed this Thanksgiving, I hope the road is smooth, the food is warm, and the company is even warmer. Safe travels.
Featured image credit: Leslie Cross
