The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and festivities, but it’s also a time for travel. Many people take advantage of the holidays to visit loved ones or to enjoy a much-needed vacation. However, with so many people on the move, it’s important to plan ahead and know when the busiest holiday travel days are.
According to various travel experts, the busiest holiday travel days vary depending on the holiday. For Thanksgiving, the Sunday after the holiday tends to be the busiest travel day, while for Christmas, the busiest days are typically December 20th and 21st. Additionally, the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving are also busy travel days, with the Transportation Security Administration recording its highest passenger screening volume in history on the Sunday after Thanksgiving in 2019.
Knowing the busiest holiday travel days is essential for anyone planning to travel during the holiday season. By planning ahead and avoiding peak travel days, travelers can save time, money, and stress. With this in mind, it’s important to keep an eye on travel trends and to be flexible with travel plans in order to make the most of the holiday season.
Understanding Holiday Travel
Holiday travel can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for many people. With so many people traveling during the holiday season, airports and highways can become congested, leading to long lines, delays, and other travel-related issues. Understanding the busiest days for holiday travel can help travelers better plan their trips and avoid some of the stress associated with holiday travel.
The holiday season typically refers to the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. During this time, many people travel to visit family and friends, go on vacations, or take advantage of holiday sales and events. The travel industry experiences a surge in both domestic and international travel during this time, with millions of people taking to the skies, roads, and rails.
According to various sources, the busiest travel days during the holiday season vary depending on the holiday and the year. For example, the Sunday after Thanksgiving is typically the busiest travel day for U.S. airports, while the Wednesday before Christmas is often the busiest travel day preceding Christmas. Similarly, the Sunday after Christmas is usually the busiest travel day following the holiday.
It’s important to note that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on holiday travel in recent years. While some travelers may be eager to return to their pre-pandemic travel habits, others may be more cautious and choose to stay closer to home. Additionally, travel restrictions and other safety measures may affect the number of people traveling domestically and internationally.
In summary, understanding the busiest days for holiday travel can help travelers plan their trips and avoid some of the stress associated with holiday travel. However, it’s important to keep in mind that holiday travel patterns can vary from year to year and may be affected by external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Busiest Travel Days
Holiday travel can be a stressful experience, especially when dealing with large crowds and long lines at airports. To make matters worse, some days are much busier than others, making it even more challenging to navigate through the chaos. Knowing when the busiest travel days are can help travelers plan their trips more effectively and avoid some of the headaches that come with holiday travel.
According to travel experts, the busiest travel days of the year tend to fall around major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. For Thanksgiving, the Sunday after the holiday is typically the busiest travel day, while for Christmas, the busiest travel day is often December 23rd, the day before Christmas Eve. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day can also be busy travel days, depending on when the holiday falls during the week.
It’s worth noting that other holidays such as Memorial Day, July Fourth, and Labor Day can also see high volumes of air passengers. However, the busiest travel days of the year tend to be clustered around the major winter holidays.
To help travelers plan their trips more effectively, here are some tips on the busiest and worst days to fly during the holidays:
Busiest Days to Fly
- Thanksgiving: The Sunday after Thanksgiving is typically the busiest travel day.
- Christmas: December 23rd is often the busiest travel day.
- New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day: These days can also be busy travel days, depending on when the holiday falls during the week.
Worst Days to Fly
- Thanksgiving: Avoid flying on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as this is also a busy travel day.
- Christmas: The day after Christmas (December 26th) can also be a busy travel day.
- New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day: If the holiday falls on a weekday, the days leading up to the holiday can be busy travel days.
Overall, travelers should plan ahead and book their flights as early as possible to avoid the busiest travel days. When flying during the holidays, it’s also a good idea to arrive at the airport early, pack light, and be prepared for long lines and delays.
Key Holidays and Their Impact
Thanksgiving Travel
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods in the United States. The Sunday after Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). In 2019, nearly 2.9 million passengers passed through TSA checkpoints on this day.
Holiday flight prices tend to be higher during this period. However, travelers can save money by booking their flights in advance, avoiding peak travel days, and being flexible with their travel dates.
Christmas Travel
Christmas is another busy travel period. According to Kayak, AAA, and Expedia, December 21 is expected to be the busiest travel day leading up to Christmas. Airlines for America also predicts that December 20 and 21 will be the most popular days for air travel.
To save money on holiday flights, travelers can consider flying on less popular days such as Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. However, this may not be feasible for everyone.
Hanukkah Travel
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that typically falls in December. While it is not as widely celebrated as Christmas, it can still impact travel.
Travelers who are flying during Hanukkah should be aware of the holiday’s dates and plan accordingly. They may also want to consider booking their flights in advance to secure better prices.
Kwanzaa Travel
Kwanzaa is a week-long holiday that celebrates African heritage and culture. It begins on December 26 and ends on January 1. While it is not as widely celebrated as Thanksgiving or Christmas, it can still impact travel.
Travelers who are flying during Kwanzaa should be aware of the holiday’s dates and plan accordingly. They may also want to consider booking their flights in advance to secure better prices.
Overall, travelers should be aware of the impact that holidays can have on travel. By planning ahead and being flexible, they can save money and avoid the stress of crowded airports and high prices.
Transportation Options During Holidays
When it comes to holiday travel, transportation options are essential for travelers. Two of the most common options are air travel and car travel.
Air Travel
Air travel is a popular choice for holiday travel, especially for long-distance trips. During the holiday season, airlines often offer special deals and discounts to attract more travelers. However, it’s important to book flights early to secure the best deals and avoid higher prices.
When it comes to air travel, travelers should also be aware of baggage restrictions and fees. Airlines have different policies and fees for checked and carry-on bags, and overweight or oversized bags can result in additional fees.
Car Travel
Car travel is another popular option for holiday travel, especially for shorter distances. It provides more flexibility and allows travelers to enjoy scenic routes and make stops along the way.
For those who don’t have their own car, car rentals are available at most airports and cities. However, it’s important to book car rentals early to secure the best deals and avoid higher prices.
When it comes to car travel, travelers should also be aware of traffic and road conditions. During the holiday season, roads can be congested, and weather conditions can be unpredictable. It’s important to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel.
Overall, both air travel and car travel are viable options for holiday travel. Travelers should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between the two.
Busiest Airports During Holidays
During the holiday season, airports can get extremely crowded. It is important to know which airports are the busiest during this time so that travelers can plan accordingly. Here are some of the busiest airports during the holidays:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: This airport in Atlanta, Georgia is the busiest airport in the world and sees a significant increase in traffic during the holidays. It is a major hub for Delta Airlines and serves as a connection point for many travelers.
- Los Angeles International Airport: LAX is the second busiest airport in the United States and sees a significant increase in traffic during the holidays. It is a major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines.
- John F. Kennedy International Airport: JFK is one of the busiest airports in the world and sees a significant increase in traffic during the holidays. It is a major hub for Delta Airlines and JetBlue Airways.
- Orlando International Airport: This airport in Florida sees a significant increase in traffic during the holidays due to its proximity to popular theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
- Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport: This airport in France sees a significant increase in traffic during the holidays due to its popularity as a tourist destination.
New York City is a popular destination during the holidays, and both JFK and LaGuardia airports see a significant increase in traffic during this time. However, it is important to note that smaller airports in the surrounding areas, such as Newark Liberty International Airport and Long Island MacArthur Airport, may also see an increase in traffic.
Overall, travelers should be prepared for crowds and long wait times during the holiday season. It is recommended to arrive at the airport early and to allow extra time for security and boarding.
Travel Planning and Booking
When it comes to holiday travel, planning and booking in advance is crucial. Travel plans should be made as early as possible to avoid expensive flight prices and to ensure the availability of preferred accommodations.
There are several online travel agencies like Kayak, AAA, and Expedia that offer competitive prices for flights, hotels, and vacation rentals. These websites provide users with the option to compare prices and find the best deals available.
It is recommended to book flights at least three weeks in advance to get the best prices. It is also important to keep in mind the return dates as they can significantly affect the price of the flights. For example, the Sunday after Christmas is usually the busiest travel day, and flights on this day tend to be more expensive.
In addition to booking flights and accommodations, travelers should also consider purchasing travel insurance to protect themselves from unexpected events such as flight cancellations or medical emergencies.
Overall, planning and booking holiday travel in advance can save travelers time and money. By utilizing online travel agencies and booking early, travelers can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Impact of the Pandemic on Holiday Travel
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on holiday travel over the past few years. The pandemic has led to many travel restrictions and regulations, making it more challenging to travel during the holidays. The emergence of the Delta variant has also complicated matters, leading to additional restrictions and uncertainty.
Many people have been hesitant to travel due to the pandemic, with concerns about the virus’s spread and the potential for exposure. The pandemic has also led to changes in work arrangements, with many people working remotely. This has led to more flexibility in travel plans, with people able to work from anywhere, including while on vacation.
Despite the challenges, some people are still choosing to travel during the holidays. However, they are taking additional precautions, such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and getting vaccinated. Some airlines and travel companies have also implemented additional safety measures, such as increased cleaning and disinfecting protocols.
Overall, the pandemic has had a significant impact on holiday travel, with many people opting to stay home or travel less frequently. However, with the availability of vaccines and increased safety measures, some people are still choosing to travel during the holidays. It is important to stay informed about the latest travel restrictions and guidelines to ensure safe and enjoyable holiday travel.
TSA and Security Measures During Holidays
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of travelers and their belongings during holiday travel. TSA has implemented a number of security measures and procedures to help manage the increased volume of travelers during the busy holiday season.
One of the ways that TSA has streamlined the security process during the holidays is through the TSA PreCheck program. This program allows eligible travelers to enjoy expedited screening at security checkpoints, which can help reduce wait times and alleviate some of the stress of holiday travel.
TSA also closely monitors security line wait times and adjusts staffing levels as needed to ensure that travelers can move through security as quickly and efficiently as possible. Travelers can check the TSA website or download the MyTSA app to get real-time information on security line wait times at airports across the country.
During the holidays, TSA checkpoint data shows that the busiest travel days are typically the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after Thanksgiving. The busiest days during the Christmas holiday season are typically December 23 and the Sunday after Christmas.
In addition to these measures, TSA also reminds travelers to pack smart and be prepared for security screening. This includes packing liquids, gels, and aerosols in compliance with the 3-1-1 rule, removing electronics larger than a cell phone from carry-on bags for separate screening, and being aware of prohibited items.
Overall, TSA is confident in its ability to manage the increased volume of travelers during the holidays and ensure that everyone can travel safely and efficiently.
Statistical Data on Holiday Travel
According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year’s holiday periods are among the busiest long-distance travel periods of the year in the United States. During these periods, people travel to visit family and friends, go on vacations, or attend business meetings.
In 2021, about 29% of Americans reported that they were likely to travel for Thanksgiving, while about 33% said the same about Christmas. The busiest travel day for the Thanksgiving holiday is typically the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, while the second busiest is typically the Monday before. In contrast, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are usually the least busy days for travel during the Christmas/New Year’s holiday period.
Domestic flights are the most popular mode of transportation for holiday travel, accounting for about 90% of all holiday travel. During the Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year’s periods, the number of domestic flights increases significantly. For example, in 2021, about 2.2 million to 3 million passengers were expected to fly each day over the holiday window, or an extra 72,000 travelers per day.
The busiest travel days for domestic flights during the Thanksgiving holiday period are typically the Friday and Sunday after Thanksgiving. In contrast, the busiest travel days for domestic flights during the Christmas/New Year’s holiday period are typically the Friday before Christmas and the day after Christmas.
It is worth noting that the volume of business travel during the Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year’s periods is significantly lower than during the rest of the year, accounting for only 7-8% of long-distance trips during these periods, compared to 17% during the rest of the year.
Conclusion
In summary, the busiest travel days during the holiday season in the United States tend to be around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. According to the Transportation Security Administration, the Sunday after Thanksgiving is typically the busiest travel day for U.S. airports. Additionally, the days leading up to Christmas and the days following Christmas also see a significant increase in travel volume.
However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for travelers to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 before making any travel plans. It is also recommended that travelers book their flights and accommodations well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.
Based on recent data, Wednesday, December 22, and Wednesday, December 28, are expected to be the busiest travel days around the Christmas holiday this year. Fridays are typically the busiest days to fly during most weeks of the year, but this trend may not necessarily hold true during the holiday season.
Overall, travelers should be prepared for potential delays and long lines at airports during the holiday season. By planning ahead and staying informed about any travel restrictions or safety measures in place, travelers can still enjoy a smooth and stress-free holiday travel experience.

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