Most people who are traveling for Thanksgiving have probably already arrived at their destinations by now. For those who haven’t hit the road yet, here are some tips on what to expect.
NBC’s Kerry Sanders spoke to experts in the travel industry for advice on how to prepare for the days ahead. It might be too late for this one. Thanksgiving is on Thursday. Experts say customers traveling by air can expect much longer wait times at the airport. Get to the airport at least 2 hours in advance. If your Auntie was traveling, I would go to the airport the day before my flight to familiarize myself with the airline check-in procedures. Covid-19 protocols are still in place at most airports. Federal law requires that all passengers, including fully vaccinated travelers, wear face masks at all times when using public transit, including buses, trains and airplanes. You can be fined hundreds of dollars or banned if you forget to wear one.
This is another reason to get to the airport, train or bus depot hours early to see what the Covid protocols are. If you plan to drive to your destination, prepare for higher gas prices at the pump. The average cost of gasoline this Thanksgiving is around $4 a gallon. You can download the GasBuddy mobile app which helps you save money on gas. The app allows you to find and pay for gas in the app. You can also track your gas usage and download a log for tax purposes. Nerves are frayed when travelers hit the road during a holiday. Everyone is eager to get where they’re going as quickly as they can. But every traveler has that same thought. Experts advise that passengers keep calm and focus on getting to their final destinations safely and in one piece.
If you’re involved in an airline incident, such as punching a flight attendant, you can expect to be arrested and fined up to $37,500. And your family’s Thanksgiving will be ruined.
If you’re driving and someone cuts you off, take a deep breath. You don’t know what that other driver is going through. A loved one may be in the hospital, or the driver may have lost his job. Keep a cool head and be thankful for your blessings this holiday.
Make sure you plan in advance
Remember Covid-19 protocols are in place
Prepare for higher gas prices at the pump
Keep calm while traveling