Thanksgiving Travel Surge Expected in Nashville

Thanksgiving Travel Surge Expected in Nashville

As Thanksgiving approaches, Nashville is gearing up for an enormous wave of travelers hitting the roads and skies. With an estimated 80 million Americans planning to travel during the Thanksgiving week, it’s shaping up to be one of the busiest travel periods in recent years. This news is particularly exciting for folks heading to see family and friends during this cherished holiday.

Road Warriors and Aerial Adventurers

According to travel forecasts, out of the 80 million travelers, around 70 million will be hitting the roads by car, while nearly 6 million will opt for flying. This significant uptick in travel is sure to create a buzz on the highways and in the airports as families reunite and friends gather to celebrate.

Traffic Predictions

If you’re planning to drive, you might want to take extra precautions. Transportation data providers have identified the worst times for traffic during the Thanksgiving week: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday afternoons from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. This is when you might want to consider avoiding the roads unless you like being stuck in traffic.

On a brighter note, the “best time” to drive to your Thanksgiving dinner is on Thanksgiving Day itself. If your plans include returning home, it’s advisable to leave early Sunday morning, before the bulk of travelers flood the roads in the afternoon.

Stay Ahead of the Traffic

With so many people expected to be on the move, navigating through the heavy traffic can quickly become overwhelming. To help ease your travel experience, it’s recommended to use traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze. These can provide real-time updates on traffic conditions, helping you avoid major delays. Additionally, for people traveling in Tennessee, TDOT Smartway is an excellent tool to check road conditions before heading out.

Fueling Up for the Journey

$2.71, which is down from last year’s average of $3.01. This drop in gas prices means you can spend a bit more on those delicious Thanksgiving treats instead of pumping gas!

Final Tips for Travelers

For those hitting the roads or heading to the airport, it’s best to stay informed about traffic updates. Keeping an eye on local news alerts will help you stay ahead of any potential issues and allow for a smoother journey. Remember, safety comes first! Consider planning your route ahead of time and account for any possible delays.

As we look forward to Thanksgiving, it’s heartwarming to see families and friends excited to come together once again. With a little planning and some helpful technology on your side, you can ensure your holiday travels are as enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re driving over the river and through the woods or hopping on a plane, have a wonderful Thanksgiving!