Thanksgiving is just a few days away. And with that, travel plans are well underway. Experts say more travelers will be hitting the road and the skies this holiday. This year’s travel period kicked off last Friday and runs through the 29th.
AAA Michigan projects more than 1.5 million Michiganders will travel 50 miles or more over Thanksgiving this year. That’s the most travelers since 2007 and the 7th consecutive year of growth. Increases are linked to improvements in the economy along with a strengthened consumer confidence. Nationwide, if you’re taking to the skies, expect even more travelers.
“The official travel period for Thanksgiving, began last Friday and goes to November 29th. And during that time frame, there are 27.3 million travelers that will take to the air; don’t expect any empty seats next to you.”
If you’re one of those braving the nation’s airports… Travel expert Jo Anne Verboom, with Gagnon Travel, has some tips on the best days to travel.
“The least busy day would be on Thanksgiving itself. Normally, the actual holiday is a little bit quieter. So, the busiest days would be this Wednesday and next Sunday, the end of the weekend of Thanksgiving.”
Verboom adds her usual tips, make sure you get to the airport on time, don’t expect that because you’ve printed your boarding passes at home you can get there any later, plus allow yourself plenty of time to get to connecting flights. And one of the biggest tips she offers can be used whether you’re flying or driving.
“The lines are much longer, everything takes more time. You need to realize that this is the holiday, be a little optimistic, be more kind, because everyone is in a hurry and we need to have a little patience.”
