Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and 2023 is no exception. With the pandemic slowly fading away, more people are expected to travel this year to reunite with their loved ones. However, with the increase in travel, it is important to plan ahead and be aware of the busiest days to avoid long lines and delays.
According to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) data from the past four years, the busiest travel days around Thanksgiving are typically the Wednesday before and the Sunday after the holiday. This means that if you are planning to travel during this time, you should expect larger crowds and longer wait times. However, Thanksgiving Day itself tends to be the least crowded day to fly, so if you are looking to avoid the crowds, this may be your best option.
While the pandemic may still be a concern for some travelers, the TSA has implemented safety measures to ensure a safe and healthy travel experience. These measures include increased cleaning and sanitization, social distancing protocols, and mask mandates. It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure the safety of yourself and others while traveling during this busy time.
Understanding the Busiest Travel Days
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods of the year in the United States. The busiest travel days during Thanksgiving week typically fall on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after Thanksgiving. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the number of travelers passing through airport checkpoints is expected to increase significantly during the Thanksgiving week.
Based on the TSA checkpoint data from the past four years, the Transportation Analytics Company predicts that the busiest travel days around Thanksgiving 2023 will be Sunday, November 26th, and Wednesday, November 22nd. These two days are expected to have the highest volume of travelers passing through airport checkpoints.
Travelers who plan to fly during Thanksgiving week should be prepared for long lines, crowded airports, and potential flight delays. It is recommended that travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for sufficient time to check-in, pass through security, and get to their gate.
To avoid the busiest travel days, travelers may consider flying on less popular travel days, such as Thanksgiving Day itself or the Saturday after Thanksgiving. These days are generally less crowded and may offer lower airfares.
In summary, the busiest travel days during Thanksgiving week 2023 are expected to be Sunday, November 26th, and Wednesday, November 22nd. Travelers should plan accordingly and arrive at the airport early to avoid potential delays and long lines.
Air Travel During Thanksgiving 2023
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods in the United States, with millions of people traveling to be with family and friends. As such, air travel during Thanksgiving 2023 is expected to be hectic, with large crowds, long lines, and potential delays. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your Thanksgiving air travel.
Airport Crowds and Delays
During Thanksgiving, airports are typically crowded with passengers, which can lead to long lines at security checkpoints and baggage claim areas. Additionally, there may be flight delays due to weather or other factors. To avoid missing a flight, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time, especially during peak travel days.
Airfares and Booking
Airfares during Thanksgiving 2023 are expected to be higher than normal due to the high demand for flights. To get the best prices, travelers are advised to book their flights early, ideally several weeks in advance. It is also recommended to check for flight deals and promotions offered by airlines.
Best and Worst Days to Fly
The busiest travel days around Thanksgiving are typically the Wednesday before and the Sunday after the holiday. To avoid the crowds and potential delays, travelers are advised to fly on less busy days such as Thanksgiving Day itself or the Monday or Tuesday before the holiday. It is also recommended to book the first flight out in the morning, as this is typically the least crowded time of day.
In conclusion, air travel during Thanksgiving 2023 is expected to be busy and potentially stressful, but with some planning and preparation, travelers can minimize the impact of crowds and delays. By arriving early, booking flights in advance, and choosing less busy travel days, travelers can make their Thanksgiving air travel as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Road Travel During Thanksgiving 2023
Traffic and Congestion
Thanksgiving Day is one of the busiest travel days of the year, and road travel is no exception. According to the Transportation Security Administration, the number of travelers during the Thanksgiving holiday period is expected to reach record levels in 2023. This means that drivers can expect heavy traffic and congestion on highways and major roads, particularly during peak travel times.
To avoid getting stuck in traffic, it is recommended to plan ahead and travel during off-peak hours. According to Blacklane Blog, the best times to hit the road are early in the morning or late at night. Drivers should also be prepared for potential delays and allow extra time for their journey.
AAA and Nerdwallet Insights
AAA and Nerdwallet have both provided insights into the busiest travel days for Thanksgiving 2023. AAA predicts that the busiest travel day will be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, with the heaviest traffic expected between 3pm and 7pm. Nerdwallet agrees with this assessment, stating that the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the worst day to travel, followed closely by the Sunday after Thanksgiving.
Both AAA and Nerdwallet recommend traveling on Thanksgiving Day itself, as it is typically the least crowded day for travel. However, drivers should still be prepared for some traffic and congestion, particularly in the morning and early afternoon.
In summary, drivers should plan ahead and travel during off-peak hours to avoid traffic and congestion during Thanksgiving 2023. The busiest travel days are expected to be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after, with Thanksgiving Day itself being the least crowded day for travel.
Traveling Post-Pandemic
Thanksgiving travel in 2023 will be different from previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While vaccines have been distributed, there are still concerns about the virus spreading. Travelers should take precautions to protect themselves and others.
International travel may still be restricted, depending on the country. It is important for travelers to check the latest travel guidelines before making plans. Italy, for example, may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry.
When traveling, it is recommended to wear a mask in crowded areas and practice social distancing. Travelers should also wash their hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.
In addition to the pandemic, travelers should also be prepared for busy airports and potential flight delays. It is recommended to arrive at the airport early and allow extra time for security and boarding.
Overall, Thanksgiving travel in 2023 will require extra planning and precautions due to the ongoing pandemic. By taking the necessary steps to protect themselves and others, travelers can still enjoy a safe and memorable holiday.
Planning Your Holiday Travel
Holiday trips can be both exciting and stressful, especially when it comes to booking flights. To make the most out of your Thanksgiving holiday travel in 2023, it is essential to plan ahead and be well-prepared. Here are some tips to help you navigate the busiest travel days of the year.
Ideal Time to Book
Booking early is the key to saving money and securing the best flights for your holiday travel. According to travel experts, the ideal time to book Thanksgiving flights is around 60 to 90 days in advance. This will give you enough time to compare prices, choose the most convenient flight times, and avoid the last-minute rush. If you are planning to travel during the Christmas holiday season, it is recommended to book your flights even earlier, around 120 days in advance.
Dealing with Cancellations
Unfortunately, cancellations and delays are common during the holiday season due to weather and other factors. To avoid being stranded at the airport, it is advisable to book early flights and choose routes with fewer connections. It is also important to stay informed of any changes to your flight schedule by signing up for alerts from your airline. In case of cancellations or delays, be sure to know your rights as a passenger and ask for compensation if necessary.
Overall, planning ahead and being flexible can help make your Thanksgiving holiday travel in 2023 stress-free and enjoyable. By following these tips, you can maximize your chances of getting the best flights at the best prices and avoid any unexpected surprises.
Conclusion
In summary, Thanksgiving travel in 2023 is expected to be busiest on the days leading up to the holiday and immediately after. Travelers looking to avoid crowds and high prices may want to consider departing on November 19 to November 21 or Thanksgiving Day itself on November 23.
While it may be tempting to fly on Black Friday, November 24, it is expected to be one of the busiest travel days of the year. Those looking to save money may want to book their flights well in advance or consider traveling on less popular days.
Overall, Thanksgiving travel can be stressful and expensive, but with proper planning and preparation, it can also be a time of joy and excitement. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for any updates or changes to their flights, and to pack light to avoid any additional baggage fees.
Labor Day and other holidays may also be busy travel times, so it is important to plan accordingly and book early to secure the best deals. With a little bit of patience and flexibility, travelers can navigate the busy holiday travel season with ease.

Hello, Holiday Travelers! I’m Judith Eve, the founder and principal writer for HeyFamilyTravelers and CruisingtonPost, and now HeyHolidayTravelers.com
My home is nestled in beautiful South Florida, where the sun kisses the waves and the beach stretches out like an endless welcome mat. It’s a gorgeous place that brings joy and inspiration, but my spirit has always been captivated by the allure of distant shores and unique cultures. The thrill of packing a suitcase, stepping aboard a plane or a ship, and waking up in a new destination never fails to ignite my soul.
I started my life’s adventure as a mother of two wonderful children who have since blessed me with three delightful grandchildren. The memories we’ve built exploring the globe together are the treasures of my heart. This love for family and travel is the core of Heyholidaytravelers, and HeyFamilyTravelers, places where I share our stories, tips, and experiences, aiming to inspire other families to embark on their own adventure-filled journeys.
Over the years, my family and I have discovered our shared passion for cruising. There is something incredible about floating on the endless sea, with world-class service, fabulous entertainment, and the excitement of exploring multiple destinations in one trip. My love for this unique form of travel led me to establish CruisingtonPost, another platform where I focus on sharing our sea-borne adventures, cruise reviews, and travel advice.
My objective is simple. I want to encourage everyone, especially families and seniors, to step out of their comfort zones, explore the world, and create their own cherished memories. Life’s journey is full of beautiful places and moments waiting to be discovered. I hope that through my stories and articles, you’ll find the inspiration and practical guidance you need to set sail on your own grand adventure, during special holidays, or any time of year.
Thank you for stopping by. I look forward to sharing family travel escapades with you and hearing about your own travels as well.
Happy Travels,
Judith Eve