Your Ultimate Guide to Thanksgiving Travel in 2024
Thanksgiving travel has seen a surge in interest this year, with trending topics covering everything from flight deals to popular destinations. Whether you’re planning a road trip to a national park or seeking a cozy lodge for the holidays, here’s everything you need to know.
Top Questions About Thanksgiving Travel
1. Where to travel for Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving offers a fantastic opportunity to explore various parts of the country. Based on recent trends, here are a few top spots:
- Yosemite National Park: The most searched national park for Thanksgiving travel. Its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities make it perfect for nature lovers.
- New York: As the most-searched city for Thanksgiving flights, it’s an exciting option with festivities, parades, and seasonal events.
- Las Vegas and Nashville: Both cities have seen a rise in Thanksgiving flight searches, indicating they’re popular for those looking for vibrant city experiences.
2. Is Thanksgiving Day a busy travel day?
Thanksgiving Day itself tends to be less busy than the days leading up to it. However, the Sunday after Thanksgiving is typically one of the busiest travel days of the year. If you want to avoid crowds, consider traveling on Thanksgiving Day or booking your return on a day other than Sunday.
3. How many people are expected to travel on Thanksgiving weekend?
Each year, millions of Americans travel during Thanksgiving, with numbers continuing to rise. While exact figures vary, industry experts estimate over 50 million travelers across the U.S. this Thanksgiving, making it one of the busiest weekends of the year.
4. Where to go during Thanksgiving in California?
California offers a mix of destinations for a memorable Thanksgiving:
- Wine Country: Enjoy Thanksgiving in Napa or Sonoma with seasonal tastings and autumn vineyard views.
- Yosemite National Park: With fewer crowds and stunning fall scenery, Yosemite is a fantastic option.
- Los Angeles: If you prefer a city vibe, Los Angeles has Thanksgiving events, restaurants, and nearby beaches to enjoy.
What is Travel Tuesday?
Travel Tuesday, occurring the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is an increasingly popular day for scoring travel deals. Here are some frequently asked questions about this trend:
1. When is Travel Tuesday? Travel Tuesday is the first Tuesday after Cyber Monday, making it a great time to find discounts on flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
2. Is Travel Tuesday real? Yes, Travel Tuesday is real! Many airlines and travel companies offer limited-time deals on this day, aiming to attract holiday shoppers.
3. Is it worth waiting for Travel Tuesday? If you’re flexible with your travel dates and haven’t booked your holiday flights yet, Travel Tuesday is definitely worth considering. Deals may vary, so keep an eye on specific travel websites and apps for the best discounts.
4. When do Travel Tuesday deals start? Deals typically go live early on Tuesday morning. For the best selection, set your alarms and be ready to book before deals sell out.
Tips for Booking Affordable Thanksgiving Travel
- Look for Black Friday Flight Deals: This year, searches for “Black Friday flight deals” are up 120%, suggesting significant discounts on airfare. Many airlines offer exclusive sales, so keep an eye out.
- Cheapest Day to Book Flights: Data suggests that the “cheapest day to book flights” is a top concern for travelers. Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have the best deals, but Black Friday and Cyber Monday could yield special discounts as well.
- Consider Lodges and Resorts: Based on recent trends, “Thanksgiving resort” is searched 110% more than “Thanksgiving lodge.” Resorts offer a wider range of amenities and activities for families, while lodges provide a cozy, rustic escape. Choose based on your desired experience.
Thanksgiving Travel Destinations by State
In recent Google Trends data, Wyoming, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Montana were among the top states showing interest in Thanksgiving lodges. This suggests that these areas may be popular for travelers seeking a quieter, more nature-focused holiday.
Final Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Trip
- Book Early: With high travel demand, especially for popular destinations like New York and Yosemite, it’s best to book your flights, accommodations, and car rentals in advance.
- Avoid the Crowds: If possible, avoid traveling on peak days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after.
- Stay Informed: Check traffic and weather reports regularly, especially if you’re planning a road trip. Many travelers search for “Thanksgiving traffic” in states like Massachusetts and California, highlighting the importance of traffic planning.
- Pack Smart: Holiday travel often comes with delays, so bring snacks, chargers, and entertainment for a smoother journey.
Whether you’re exploring a national park, visiting family, or taking advantage of Travel Tuesday deals, planning ahead can make your Thanksgiving trip both affordable and enjoyable. Safe travels and happy holidays!
