Traveling for Thanksgiving in California? Here are best, worst times to hit the road, AAA says
Planning to travel in or across California during the Thanksgiving holiday? Be prepared for record-breaking crowds.
According to AAA, more Americans are on the move this holiday, with nearly 80 million people traveling more than 50 miles.
That’s an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to 2023, the automobile association said, exceeding even pre-coronavirus pandemic levels
“Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday for travel, and this year we’re expecting to set new records across the board, from driving to flying and cruising,” Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, said in a Monday, Nov. 18, news release.
“Americans reconnect with family and friends over Thanksgiving, and travel is a big part of that.” Barber said. “AAA continues to see travel demand soar post-pandemic with our members looking for new adventures and memorable vacations.”
If you’re planning to travel this upcoming Thanksgiving, here are the best — and worst — times to head out:
How many California residents will travel for Thanksgiving?
Amid the holiday travel surge, 10.7 million California residents are expected to join the nationwide rush, according to AAA.
Of those, approximately 9.3 million Californians will hit the road by car, while 1.1 million will take to the skies for domestic airplane flights.
Another 296,000 Californians are expected to travel by alternative means, including buses, trains and cruises, AAA said.
What are the worst days to hit the road for Thanksgiving?
According to AAA, these are the worst times to hit the road in California during the Thanksgiving holiday:
- Monday, Nov. 25, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 26, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Wednesday, Nov. 27, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 29, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 30, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 1, from noon to 6 p.m.
- Monday, Dec. 2, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
When are the best times for holiday driving?
AAA said these are the best days and times to drive for Thanksgiving:
- Monday, Nov. 25, before 11 a.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 26, before 10 a.m.
- Wednesday, Nov. 27, before 10 a.m.
- Friday, Nov. 29, after 1 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 30, before 1 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 1, before 1 p.m.
- Monday, Dec. 2, before 8 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
“Minimal traffic impact” is expected on Thanksgiving Day.
What are the best days to fly for Thanksgiving?
According to AAA, you can expect massive airport crowds and sky-high plane ticket prices on Tuesday, Nov. 26, and Wednesday, Nov. 27.
For a smoother experience, AAA said to consider traveling on Monday, Nov. 25, or even Thanksgiving Day itself.
“Both ... experience lighter traffic levels,” AAA said. “As an added bonus, those days typically have some of the lowest prices on tickets around the Thanksgiving holiday.”
If avoiding crowds is your top priority, Sunday, Nov. 24, is typically the quietest travel day at airports during Thanksgiving week.
However, “You’ll likely pay more for the lack of crowds,” AAA said.
How much does gas cost in California this Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving travelers in California will have the lowest average gas prices for the holiday since 2020.
On average, a gallon of regular gasoline cost $4.46 in California as of Monday, Nov. 18.
To find the average fuel price in your area, check the AAA website.
What are some holiday travel tips?
If you’re hitting the road this Thanksgiving, AAA said to ensure your vehicle is in good condition before you go.
“AAA expects to respond to more than 140,000 calls for help in California over the Thanksgiving holiday travel period,” the company said.
Air travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures.
If you’re driving yourself to the airport, reserving a parking spot in advance can save you from last-minute stress.
Downloading your airline’s app and checking in from home can help you avoid long lines at terminal kiosks, according to AAA.
