Thanksgiving Travel Tips
As Thanksgiving approaches, travel plans are in full swing, and this year is expected to see even more travelers on the road, in the skies, and on the seas compared to 2022. Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, remarked, “Travel demand has been strong all year, and AAA’s Thanksgiving forecast reflects that continued desire to get away and spend time with loved ones.”
Last year, AAA predicted that over 55.4 million people would hit the road or board flights during the five-day Thanksgiving period. To ensure your holiday travel goes smoothly, we’ve gathered helpful tips from travel experts like AAA and the American Red Cross:
Road Travel Tips:
- Avoid driving on Wednesday afternoon. The day before Thanksgiving is historically one of the most congested times on roadways. AAA suggests leaving early in the morning or after 6 PM to miss the traffic. Similarly, the Saturday and Sunday after Thanksgiving are expected to be busy. If you’re traveling, aim to depart before noon to avoid the worst of the crowds.
- Prepare your car for a road trip: Be sure to fuel up, check tire pressure, and ensure your tire tread is adequate for long drives.
- Pack essentials: Bring an emergency preparedness kit, first aid supplies, and any other necessary travel gear.
- Stay focused while driving: Minimize distractions, such as cell phones, and stay alert on the road.
- Check the weather for your route and destination before departing.
- Rest well before traveling: Fatigue while driving can be dangerous, so make sure you’re well-rested before hitting the road.
- Be cautious around large trucks: Do not cut in front of them and allow extra space for stopping.
- Always buckle up, drive at safe speeds, and never drive impaired.
- Follow road rules: Exercise extra caution when driving through work zones, especially as road maintenance may still be ongoing.
Winter Weather Travel Tips:
Winter weather can sometimes add challenges to your Thanksgiving travels. If snow or ice is forecasted and you must travel, PennDOT and other agencies recommend the following winter driving safety tips:
- Stay with your car if you get stuck in the snow. Do not attempt to walk to safety.
- Tie a bright cloth to your antenna or door handle to signal for help.
- Run the heater for about 10 minutes every hour to stay warm, ensuring the exhaust pipe remains clear to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
- Keep a window slightly open to allow fresh air into the vehicle.
If winter weather is forecasted, try to eliminate all non-essential travel. This helps keep you and your family safe and allows PennDOT crews to better perform snow removal duties.
Winter Driving Tips:
If you must drive in snowy or icy conditions, take these precautions:
- Carry a winter emergency travel kit.
- Stay updated on weather and travel advisories. If the weather is bad and your trip isn’t necessary, consider postponing.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.
- Reduce speed and increase your following distance from other vehicles.
- Avoid sudden stops and starts to prevent skidding.
- Be cautious of “black ice,” which may appear as wet spots on the road but are actually frozen.
- Use extra caution on bridges and ramps, where ice forms more quickly.
- Keep a cellphone with you, in case of emergencies.
- Avoid using cruise control when roads are snow-covered.
- Turn on your headlights whenever your windshield wipers are in use, as required by state law.
- Use low beams in poor visibility, such as during heavy snow or rain.
- Clear snow and ice from your windows, mirrors, and all lights before driving.
- Remove snow and ice from the hood and roof of your vehicle. If it flies off and causes injury or damage, you could be ticketed under state law.
- Do not park or abandon your vehicle on snow emergency routes.
- Do not pass or interfere with plow trucks working in tandem, as this can create dangerous conditions.
- Let someone know your route and estimated arrival time. This way, if something goes wrong, they’ll know where to start looking for you.
If you get stranded, it’s generally safer to stay with your vehicle until help arrives. Run the engine for warmth every hour or so, but make sure the exhaust pipe is clear, and keep a window slightly open to avoid dangerous fumes.
Remember, preparation is the key to safely navigating winter roads. Check that your vehicle is ready for icy and snowy conditions before embarking on your trip.
For more winter driving tips, visit PennDOT’s Winter Operations page or download their Winter Driving Guide (PDF).
Stay safe and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!