Turkey Travel 2024

Where are you planning on traveling for Thanksgiving? I love to hear of all the places that families gather together around the table and share a meal with each other all across the world. Some have decided that the traditional meal around the table with the turkey at the center is the way to go, while others have booked their tropical beach getaway instead. Regardless of the way that you intend to spend this holiday season, I hope that it is filled with pure joy.

I can remember just a few years ago when all of us were staying in our homes for the holidays because of the global pandemic and this year looks like there are going to be records broken. I certainly do not want to go back to those days of having to remain separated from those that we love most. I am thankful that we are all able to travel safe again and gather together to make great memories.

There are going to be more than just a few families traveling this year. Reports indicate that there are going to be nearly 71.1 million Americans on the road making their travel plans happen for Thanksgiving – that number is mind blowing to me. And just to add to that, it’s 1.3 million more drivers than last year (2023).

Some good news for those of you traveling on the highway this year – the national average for fuel has decreased overall from last year which everyone loves to hear! I always like to recommend for those driving to have your vehicle inspected before you hit the road and be sure to stop for fuel way before your little holiday light comes on telling you that you are about to be pushing.

I love to look at the travel trends for the year and see where everyone is headed. 2024 is calling everyone to the warmer destinations for the Holidays with the top 3 destinations being Orlando, Miami, and Ft. Lauderdale. Florida is going to be experiencing a significant increase in the population over the next few weeks. If you are considering traveling to a less populated area then Florida might not need to be at the top of your list.

For those who are leaving the car at home and taking the airplane – TSA is expected to screen more than 18 million passengers over the next week! The airports are going to be packed so be sure that you plan ahead. Traveling with a good mood is always the best idea. Try your best to remember that the journey is part of the experience as well. I like to try and remember that someone is having their very first travel experience and we should want it to be a great first experience for them all the way around.

Tuesday & Wednesday November 26^th and 27^th are going to be two of the busiest days of travel along with the Sunday afterwards – December 1^st.

Travel Tips:

If you are planning on traveling for the Christmas Holiday, then it would be a good idea to start booking your tickets now before the flight you need or want is no longer available.
Reserving your rental car ahead of time will also be something you will want to consider since there are no guarantees that one will be available for you when you arrive to your destination.
In order to decrease your chances of having your flight delayed or cancelled for various reasons, try to book flights that are direct and have earlier departure times.
Avoid checking your luggage in order to save time but also so that you do not risk having your luggage lost. Using vacuum seal bags for your clothing is a great way to save on luggage space for your carry-on.
Be sure to check out the “What Can I Bring?” section of the TSA website! Don’t pack too much of that turkey gravy!
Call ahead and make your reservations for all of your favorite restaurants that you want to be sure and visit when you reach your destination.
Be flexible in your plan! If it is possible to have a buffer day figured into your travel plans then I would highly recommend doing this for your trip for both going and returning.
Be sure to check your passport date and make sure that you are not traveling with a passport that will be expiring soon.
Do not wrap your gifts ahead of time – even though wrapped gifts are allowed through TSA, they are always subject to being unwrapped if necessary for additional security measures. (Asking TSA)

Traveling for the holiday season can always seem very intimidating and stressful for so many people but it certainly does not have to be. Using a travel advisor can benefit you in more ways than just trying to save you money on your tickets & reservations. As a professional travel advisor I am committed to making sure that my clients are having the greatest experience possible by using my knowledge and expertise to help them plan ahead. When you are anticipating having a great time around the dinner table with your family and friends, the memories that you are making should not begin by having a total meltdown on the journey to get there. I want to take a moment and wish everyone happy travels for the 2024 holiday season and blessed memories that will last a lifetime.