--- title: Holiday Travel Safety Tips for Your Thanksgiving Journey description: Plan smart for Thanksgiving 2025 with essential holiday travel safety tips, expert road and air advice, and the latest busiest-day forecasts. image: https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/Sam-Hihn_-safety-and-Health-Consultant-for-Axcet-HR-Solutions_-shares-essential-holiday-travel-safet%20(1).webp --- - [Client Portal](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - [Employee Login](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) [![AxcetHR Solutions Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png)](https://www.axcethr.com/) - [About Us](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/) - [Corporate Philantropy](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/corporate-philanthropy/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Values and Culture](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/values-and-culture/) - [Kansas PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/kansas-peo/) - [Missouri PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/missouri-peo/) - 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- - - [whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/thanksgiving-travel-tips-to-help-ensure-a-safe-journey](whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/thanksgiving-travel-tips-to-help-ensure-a-safe-journey) - [mailto:?subject=Holiday%20Travel%20Safety%20Tips%20for%20Your%20Thanksgiving%20Journey&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/thanksgiving-travel-tips-to-help-ensure-a-safe-journey](mailto:?subject=Holiday%20Travel%20Safety%20Tips%20for%20Your%20Thanksgiving%20Journey&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/thanksgiving-travel-tips-to-help-ensure-a-safe-journey) ![Sam Hihn, safety and Health Consultant for Axcet HR Solutions, shares essential holiday travel safety tips](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Sam-Hihn-%20(1).webp?width=1200&height=800&name=Sam-Hihn-%20(1).webp) Thanksgiving is here, marking the official start of the holiday season and a perfect time to review holiday travel safety tips. For many Americans, the long weekend ushers in favorite traditions—reconnecting with family, exploring sparkling Christmas light displays and kicking off holiday shopping. Early forecasts show that this year’s Thanksgiving travel season may be the busiest yet. [NerdWallet](https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/busiest-travel-days-thanksgiving) reports that U.S. Thanksgiving flight bookings are already 2.2% higher than last year, while [Kayak](https://www.kayak.com/news/holiday/) notes a 10% jump in flight searches compared to 2024. With more people expected on the roads and in the skies, thoughtful preparation and a few trusted holiday travel safety tips can make your trip safer, smoother, and far less stressful. At Axcet HR Solutions, our team of [health and safety experts in risk management](https://blog.axcethr.com/workplace-safety-risk-management) understands the importance of safe travel—especially during high-demand times. Whether you’re driving or flying, these expert insights will help you navigate the holiday travel season confidently.   ## Busiest Travel Days for Thanksgiving 2025 This year, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27, marking the start of a long weekend when millions of Americans travel to celebrate with family and friends. With so many hitting the road or taking to the skies, timing is key to avoiding congestion. Picking the right travel day is a key element of smart holiday travel safety tips. For the 2025 season, the data suggest: ### **Wednesday, November 26** The **day before Thanksgiving** remains among the busiest travel days on the road and in the air. ### **Sunday, November 30** The **Sunday after Thanksgiving** is often the single busiest travel day of the year for air travel. Conversely, **Thanksgiving Day itself** often sees lighter airport crowds and fewer road backups when compared with surrounding days.  By understanding these patterns, you can apply effective holiday travel safety tips by choosing less-crowded windows, avoiding the highest-stress days and planning your journey accordingly. RELATED: ['Tis the Season for Safe Holiday Lighting Tips >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/tis-the-season-for-safe-holiday-lighting) ## Best and Worst Times to Travel on the Road This Thanksgiving If you’ll be driving this year, applying holiday travel safety tips means not just maintaining your vehicle, but also timing your departure smartly. According to [traffic-data sources](https://www.blacklane.com/en/blog/travel/traffic-on-thanksgiving-day/), here are the best and worst times to be out on the road: - **Wednesday, November 26** - **Best Time**: Before 11 a.m. - **Worst Time**: 2–6 p.m. (typical rush into the holiday) - **Thanksgiving Day, November 27** - **Best Time**: Evening, after dinner when roads are typically less congested. - **Worst Time**: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. - **Friday, November 28 (Black Friday)** - **Best Time**: Before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m. - **Worst Time**: 12–4 p.m., as shoppers head out for holiday deals. - **Saturday, November 29** - **Best Time:** Before noon - **Worst Time:** 3-5 p.m. - **Sunday, November 30** - **Best Time**: Before noon - **Worst Time**: 3–5 p.m. (when many families head home) [![sample holiday work policy downloadable guide](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/3e8adf01-70fb-4b22-a923-69abd70b05ff.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/3e8adf01-70fb-4b22-a923-69abd70b05ff) ## Road Travel Tips for Thanksgiving 2025 In addition to planning your departure time to avoid the rush, consider these road trip holiday travel safety tips: ### Prepare Your Car Ensure your vehicle is ready by checking tire pressure, fluids and wipers. Carry a spare key and an emergency kit with essentials like jumper cables, blankets and a flashlight. ### Use Navigation Apps to Avoid Congestion Apps like [Waze](https://www.waze.com/live-map/) and Google Maps help you stay ahead of traffic with real-time updates. ### Stay Hydrated and Bring Essentials Bring water and snacks to keep energy levels up. A well-packed car, including essentials like chargers and hand sanitizer, ensures a more comfortable trip. ### Take Driving Precautions Long drives can be tiring. Trade off with another driver if possible, and take breaks every couple of hours to rest. If you’re driving alone, pull over at a safe, well-lit location if you feel fatigued, and avoid isolated areas. ### Avoid Distractions Keep your focus on the road by putting away mobile devices while driving. Many states have strict laws prohibiting texting or using handheld phones while driving. Check the laws for your route and use hands-free options if necessary. [![ spectacular holiday lights](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/2d614aae-df7c-48d2-8312-850dab66dcca.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/2d614aae-df7c-48d2-8312-850dab66dcca) ## Air Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey Flying? Many of the same holiday travel safety tips apply—plus some travel-mode–specific strategies. ### **Book Early and Choose Morning Flights** Early booking helps secure better rates, and morning flights tend to be less affected by delays. ### **Consider Travel Insurance and Longer Layovers** Travel insurance is valuable during peak seasons. Scheduling longer layovers provides extra time for connections if flights are delayed. ### **Arrive Early and Use Airline Apps** Arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international. Use your airline’s app to track bags and access updates. ### **TSA PreCheck or Global Entry** Pre-screening programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry help reduce wait times in security. By incorporating these transit-specific tips alongside your overall holiday travel safety tips, you’re giving your travel plan a robust foundation for safety and ease. RELATED: [How to Avoid Legal Liability in Your Company's Stocking >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/how-to-avoid-legal-liability-in-your-companys-holiday-stocking) ## Staying Safe on Thanksgiving Eve (Often Called “Blackout Wednesday”) The night before Thanksgiving is an important moment in your travel safety planning. It’s known for heavy social gatherings, nightlife resurgence, and increased risk of impaired driving. - ### Plan Ahead If you plan to partake in celebrations, arrange for a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. - ### Avoid Driving Impaired Even small amounts of alcohol can affect judgment and reaction time. Make responsible choices to ensure everyone gets home safely. - ### Stay Aware Be extra cautious on the road, as not all drivers may make safe choices. As a trusted partner in safety and risk management, Axcet HR Solutions encourages everyone to prioritize safety during the holidays. By planning ahead and making responsible decisions, you can help ensure a joyous and safe Thanksgiving for yourself and your loved ones. ## Axcet’s Commitment to Your Safety At Axcet HR Solutions, our team of [safety](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/workplace-safety/) and [risk management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) professionals is committed to equipping you with actionable and timely advice. From the car ride to the airport to final arrival home, treating your journey as part of your safety ecosystem is critical. As Thanksgiving kicks off the broader holiday travel season, we hope these holiday travel safety tips help you reach your destination with ease and return home ready for the season’s joy, not exhausted from travel chaos. From all of us at Axcet HR Solutions, safe travels and a wonderful Thanksgiving! [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/9fd441ae-ace0-4fe1-8545-510ca69f0ed4.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/9fd441ae-ace0-4fe1-8545-510ca69f0ed4) [![Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/_DSC9345-Edit.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=_DSC9345-Edit.jpg)](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Written by #### [Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Sam Hihn is a Safety and Health Consultant at Axcet HR Solutions, where he helps businesses build safer, more compliant workplaces through practical, hands-on risk management strategies. He works closely with client organizations to identify hazards, strengthen safety practices, and implement programs that protect employees while supporting operational efficiency. Sam partners directly with business leaders and frontline teams to assess workplace environments, equipment, and processes, ensuring alignment with OSHA standards and other regulatory requirements. He develops customized safety and health programs tailored to each organization's needs and provides guidance through OSHA inspections, citation responses, and corrective action planning—helping clients navigate compliance with clarity and confidence. A key part of Sam's work is translating complex safety requirements into clear, actionable steps. He conducts safety training, supports incident investigations to determine root causes, and delivers practical recommendations to prevent future issues. His approach focuses not only on meeting regulatory standards but on building sustainable safety practices that become part of everyday operations. With a background in manufacturing and safety roles, Sam brings real-world perspective to the challenges employers face. He is known for his approachable style, attention to detail, and commitment to helping teams take ownership of workplace safety. Through his writing, Sam shares actionable insights and guidance to help employers reduce risk, improve compliance, and create safer environments where employees can thrive. Read more [View all posts →](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) ### Get HR Updates ### Table of Contents #### [How to Handle Holiday PTO Without Hurting Morale ![how to handle holiday PTO requests fairly](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/how-to-handle-holiday-vacation-requests-_1200-%C3%97-628-px_%20(2).webp)](https://blog.axcethr.com/how-to-handle-holiday-vacation-requests) #### [![PEO for small business](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/Jeanette-Coleman-Axcet-HR-Solutions-Kansas-City-PEO%20(1).webp) Unlocking Growth: The Power of a PEO for Small Business Expansion](https://blog.axcethr.com/peo-for-small-business) ## Let us know what you think... ![AxcetHR Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [What We Stand For](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/what-we-stand-for/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Payroll Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Subscribe to Latest Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [\[ Client Portal \]](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - - - - - Search for: Copyright © 2023 Axcet HR Solutions – Kansas City's PEO Since 1988 | [Privacy Policy](https://www.axcethr.com/privacy-policy/) | [Terms and Conditions](https://www.axcethr.com/terms-conditions/) | [**Join our Team – Careers »**](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) 10975 Grandview Drive Suite 200, Corporate Woods Building 27, Overland Park, KS 66210 | Call us: 913-383-2999 *The IRS does not endorse any particular For more information on [certified professional employer organizations](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/), go to [www.irs.gov](https://www.irs.gov).* Remove cookies ![](https://dc.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=43031&fmt=gif) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-20T19:17:53.200Z", "datePublished" : "2025-11-04T12:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "Holiday Travel Safety Tips for Your Thanksgiving Journey", "image" : [ "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/Sam-Hihn_-safety-and-Health-Consultant-for-Axcet-HR-Solutions_-shares-essential-holiday-travel-safet%20(1).webp" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/thanksgiving-travel-tips-to-help-ensure-a-safe-journey", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/_logo_axcethr_primary.png" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://www.axcethr.com/#organization", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Kansas City", "addressRegion" : "MO" }, "aggregateRating" : { "@type" : "AggregateRating", "bestRating" : "5", "ratingValue" : "5", "reviewCount" : "100" }, "areaServed" : { "@type" : "Country", "name" : "United States" }, "award" : [ "IRS Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO)", "Award-Winning HR Solutions Provider", "SHRM Certified HR Professionals", "HRCI Certified HR Professionals" ], "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "US", "availableLanguage" : "English", "contactType" : "Customer Service" }, "description" : "Award-winning Professional Employer Organization (PEO) providing comprehensive HR solutions, payroll services, employee benefits, and risk management to small and mid-sized businesses. 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For many Americans, the long weekend ushers in favorite traditions—reconnecting with family, exploring sparkling Christmas light displays and kicking off holiday shopping. Early forecasts show that this year’s Thanksgiving travel season may be the busiest yet. NerdWallet reports that U.S. Thanksgiving flight bookings are already 2.2% higher than last year, while Kayak notes a 10% jump in flight searches compared to 2024. With more people expected on the roads and in the skies, thoughtful preparation and a few trusted holiday travel safety tips can make your trip safer, smoother, and far less stressful. At Axcet HR Solutions, our team of health and safety experts in risk management understands the importance of safe travel—especially during high-demand times. Whether you’re driving or flying, these expert insights will help you navigate the holiday travel season confidently. Busiest Travel Days for Thanksgiving 2025 This year, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27, marking the start of a long weekend when millions of Americans travel to celebrate with family and friends. With so many hitting the road or taking to the skies, timing is key to avoiding congestion. Picking the right travel day is a key element of smart holiday travel safety tips. For the 2025 season, the data suggest: Wednesday, November 26 The day before Thanksgiving remains among the busiest travel days on the road and in the air. Sunday, November 30 The Sunday after Thanksgiving is often the single busiest travel day of the year for air travel. Conversely, Thanksgiving Day itself often sees lighter airport crowds and fewer road backups when compared with surrounding days. By understanding these patterns, you can apply effective holiday travel safety tips by choosing less-crowded windows, avoiding the highest-stress days and planning your journey accordingly. RELATED: 'Tis the Season for Safe Holiday Lighting Tips >> Best and Worst Times to Travel on the Road This Thanksgiving If you’ll be driving this year, applying holiday travel safety tips means not just maintaining your vehicle, but also timing your departure smartly. According to traffic-data sources, here are the best and worst times to be out on the road: Wednesday, November 26 Best Time: Before 11 a.m. Worst Time: 2–6 p.m. (typical rush into the holiday) Thanksgiving Day, November 27 Best Time: Evening, after dinner when roads are typically less congested. Worst Time: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Friday, November 28 (Black Friday) Best Time: Before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m. Worst Time: 12–4 p.m., as shoppers head out for holiday deals. Saturday, November 29 Best Time: Before noon Worst Time: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, November 30 Best Time: Before noon Worst Time: 3–5 p.m. (when many families head home) Road Travel Tips for Thanksgiving 2025 In addition to planning your departure time to avoid the rush, consider these road trip holiday travel safety tips: Prepare Your Car Ensure your vehicle is ready by checking tire pressure, fluids and wipers. Carry a spare key and an emergency kit with essentials like jumper cables, blankets and a flashlight. Use Navigation Apps to Avoid Congestion Apps like Waze and Google Maps help you stay ahead of traffic with real-time updates. Stay Hydrated and Bring Essentials Bring water and snacks to keep energy levels up. A well-packed car, including essentials like chargers and hand sanitizer, ensures a more comfortable trip. Take Driving Precautions Long drives can be tiring. Trade off with another driver if possible, and take breaks every couple of hours to rest. If you’re driving alone, pull over at a safe, well-lit location if you feel fatigued, and avoid isolated areas. Avoid Distractions Keep your focus on the road by putting away mobile devices while driving. Many states have strict laws prohibiting texting or using handheld phones while driving. Check the laws for your route and use hands-free options if necessary. Air Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey Flying? Many of the same holiday travel safety tips apply—plus some travel-mode–specific strategies. Book Early and Choose Morning Flights Early booking helps secure better rates, and morning flights tend to be less affected by delays. Consider Travel Insurance and Longer Layovers Travel insurance is valuable during peak seasons. Scheduling longer layovers provides extra time for connections if flights are delayed. Arrive Early and Use Airline Apps Arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international. Use your airline’s app to track bags and access updates. TSA PreCheck or Global Entry Pre-screening programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry help reduce wait times in security. By incorporating these transit-specific tips alongside your overall holiday travel safety tips, you’re giving your travel plan a robust foundation for safety and ease. RELATED: How to Avoid Legal Liability in Your Company's Stocking >> Staying Safe on Thanksgiving Eve (Often Called “Blackout Wednesday”) The night before Thanksgiving is an important moment in your travel safety planning. It’s known for heavy social gatherings, nightlife resurgence, and increased risk of impaired driving. Plan Ahead If you plan to partake in celebrations, arrange for a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. Avoid Driving Impaired Even small amounts of alcohol can affect judgment and reaction time. Make responsible choices to ensure everyone gets home safely. Stay Aware Be extra cautious on the road, as not all drivers may make safe choices. As a trusted partner in safety and risk management, Axcet HR Solutions encourages everyone to prioritize safety during the holidays. By planning ahead and making responsible decisions, you can help ensure a joyous and safe Thanksgiving for yourself and your loved ones. Axcet’s Commitment to Your Safety At Axcet HR Solutions, our team of safety and risk management professionals is committed to equipping you with actionable and timely advice. From the car ride to the airport to final arrival home, treating your journey as part of your safety ecosystem is critical. As Thanksgiving kicks off the broader holiday travel season, we hope these holiday travel safety tips help you reach your destination with ease and return home ready for the season’s joy, not exhausted from travel chaos. From all of us at Axcet HR Solutions, safe travels and a wonderful Thanksgiving!", "author" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn#author", "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateCreated" : "2025-11-04", "dateModified" : "2026-09-20", "datePublished" : "2025-11-04", "description" : "Thanksgiving is here, marking the official start of the holiday season and a perfect time to review holiday travel safety tips. For many Americans, the long weekend ushers in favorite traditions—reconnecting with family, exploring sparkling Christmas light displays and kicking off holiday shopping. 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