Holiday Travel Tips: How to Avoid Holiday Gridlock This Year

Thanksgiving is almost upon us. It’s time to start preparing for the family dinner and a trip to visit relatives. As you plan your shopping list, you should also start planning your travel itinerary. There are a few important things to keep in mind if you plan on driving home for the holiday, and here are our best holiday travel tips. The joyous anticipation quickly turns into stress as you sit bumper to bumper on the highway. Gridlock traffic is a nightmare any time of year, but it’s even worse when you’re ready to relax with your family.

Avoid The Gridlock

Most Thanksgiving travelers in the New York City or Baltimore-Washington Metro are hitting the roadway on Wednesday and traveling home on Sunday. If your travels include a trip down I-95 there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid the pre and post-Thanksgiving gridlock traffic.

• Leave Early – Plan to leave Tuesday or early Wednesday morning around 5 am. Just keep in mind that each city, town, and state have their own heavy traffic times.
• Be Weather Aware – Weather is always unpredictable, so check out the forecast often.
• Prepare Your Vehicle – Don’t get stranded. Make sure to check your oil, tires, and filters before traveling. Gas up ahead of time to avoid getting stuck at a congested gas station waiting for a pump.
• Charge It – Don’t forget an extra charger or battery supply for your mobile devices.
• Scenic Route – If you find yourself in a gridlock and tempted by a detour, remember that you can face local traffic and stop lights. It could take just as long as the highway.
• Beware the Tolls – As you plan out your route, research any possible tolls you may encounter and how much the current toll fee is. Calculate toll booth costs into your budget and have exact change on hand to make your toll booth experience easier.
• Rest Stops and Restrooms – Plan your bathroom breaks and factor in the time it may take to maneuver the congestion of rest stops.
• Travel Updates – Check for traffic updates regularly, avoid any unforeseen delays.
• Don’t Rush – Consider heading home earlier in the weekend. Even if you leave early, thousands of other drivers will be on the roadways headed to local shopping malls and stores. Many states prolong construction from Wednesday until Sunday relieving some of the roadway congestion.
• If you’re on a tight schedule, consider using Mass Transportation. Both the trains and planes will help you avoid the congested 95 corridor. You will need to book early.

You Have Travel Options

There are other travel alternatives and weighing the cost can help you determine the best option for you. Consider booking one of our experienced drivers to allow you and your family a worry-free Thanksgiving visit. The sooner you plan the less you will stress.

At KEE Limousine, we have the experience in planning and providing efficient travel solutions. We are predominately in the NY/CT Metro area, with worldwide affiliate resources. Speak to our exceptional skilled staff about your travel needs. Let our team help you to plan the perfect holiday trip with our well-equipped modern fleet. Leave the stress in the office and be thankful this year for a worry-free trip. Call today to get started – 860-355-4509!