Essential Driving Travel Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Holiday

Over 132 million Americans plan on traveling this Thanksgiving holiday. Whether you’re heading out to visit family or just taking a road trip to escape the crowds, with the right preparation, your journey can be almost as enjoyable as the destination!

To make it easier, we’ve put together a few essential driving tips to help you navigate the roads this Thanksgiving.

1. Plan Ahead to Avoid the Crowds

Thanksgiving sees a significant uptick in travelers, with many hitting the road Wednesday afternoon and returning Sunday. To avoid the worst of the traffic:

Leave early or late: If you can, aim to travel early in the morning or after dinner on Thanksgiving Day, as these tend to be the least congested times.
Use traffic apps: Real-time traffic apps like Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps can provide alternate routes if there’s a major backup. These tools can help you avoid accidents, road closures, and heavy congestion.
Check the weather: Keep an eye on weather forecasts for both your departure and destination areas to plan accordingly.

2. Prepare Your Vehicle for the Long Haul

Nothing puts a damper on holiday travel faster than car trouble. Be sure to give your vehicle a quick once-over before you hit the road:

Check tire pressure and tread: Cold weather can cause tires to lose pressure, and worn-out tires can make driving in rain or snow dangerous.
Oil and fluids: Ensure your car has enough oil, windshield wiper fluid, and coolant.
Battery check: Cold temperatures can drain a weak battery quickly. Get your battery checked to avoid being stranded on the side of the road.
Pack an emergency kit: A basic kit with essentials like jumper cables, a flashlight, water, non-perishable snacks, and a blanket can come in handy if you experience delays or an unexpected breakdown.

3. Take Regular Breaks

Long road trips can be stressful and take a physical toll. To make sure you alert and comfortable:

Take rest stops: Make sure to take a regular break every 2-3 hours to stretch your legs and rehydrate. This helps prevent fatigue, especially on long stretches of highway.
Avoid heavy meals: Stick to light snacks while on the road, especially if you’re driving long distances.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate you or make you jittery.

4. Drive Defensively

Holiday traffic can bring out the worst in other drivers, so stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings!

Be patient: Thanksgiving traffic is frustrating, but aggressive driving or road rage can make things worse. Allow extra time for your trip and remain calm in the face of delays.
Watch for distracted drivers: With so many travelers on the road, you’re bound to encounter drivers who are texting, using their phones, or not paying attention. Stay alert and keep a safe distance from vehicles that appear erratic or distracted.
Use your signals: Make sure you’re clearly indicating any lane changes or turns, as many drivers will be changing lanes unexpectedly to avoid traffic jams.

5. Take Advantage of Carpooling

If you’re traveling with family or friends, carpooling can help save time and reduce stress. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to travel and share the driving responsibilities. Don’t forget to track your trip to earn rewards through the MidPenRideShare App!

6. Entertainment and Comfort for the Whole Family

Long drives with kids, pets, or other passengers can get uncomfortable if you’re not prepared. Here are some tips to keep everyone entertained and relaxed:

Road trip games: Classic car games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” or the license plate game can help pass the time and keep passengers engaged.
Create a playlist: Put together a Thanksgiving-themed playlist or use our ultimate carpool playlist to make the drive fly by!
Comfortable clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothes for the journey. Bring pillows, blankets, or neck supports to make resting in the car more comfortable during longer stretches.

7. Pack Smart for the Journey

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to packing. Here’s what you should bring:

Snacks: Stock up on non-messy, easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, nuts, or fresh fruit to avoid unnecessary stops.
Chargers and power banks: Ensure your phone and devices are fully charged before hitting the road, and bring along portable chargers to avoid running out of battery mid-trip.
Travel documents: If you’re traveling across state lines, don’t forget your driver’s license, registration, and any other necessary paperwork.
Emergency contact information: Have a list of emergency contacts and important phone numbers on hand in case you run into any issues on the road.

8. Be Flexible and Stay Positive

Finally, remember that travel isn’t always predictable. Weather delays, traffic jams, and road closures are all part of the Thanksgiving travel experience. The key is to stay flexible, keep a positive attitude, and enjoy the journey as much as possible!

Thanksgiving is a time to relax, reflect, and reconnect with family and friends, and the drive there should be a part of that experience, not a stressor. By planning ahead, staying alert, and keeping a positive mindset, you can ensure your Thanksgiving road trip is both safe and enjoyable.

Safe travels, and happy Thanksgiving!