Thanksgiving is synonymous with family gatherings, gratitude, and, unfortunately, busy airports. The holiday week has historically been one of the most intense travel periods in the U.S., with 2023 seeing record-setting numbers post-pandemic. This often means chaotic airports, long security lines, and potentially bad weather, making the experience more stressful.
Worst Days to Fly for Thanksgiving Travel
The days right before Thanksgiving and the Sunday following the holiday are consistently the worst for flying. Specifically:
- Wednesday, Nov. 27, and Tuesday, Nov. 26, are expected to be the busiest for outbound travelers heading to their destinations.
- Sunday, Dec. 1, is predicted to be the busiest and most expensive day for return travel. Domestic airfare on this day is about 45% higher than average, reaching $443.
These days are notorious for being packed, and Sunday, Dec. 1, may even set the record as one of the busiest travel days of the year, as it has in previous years. Last year, over 2.9 million people passed through U.S. security checkpoints on this day alone.
Best Days to Fly for Thanksgiving Travel
To avoid the rush, consider flying on the following days:
- Saturday, Nov. 23
- Monday, Nov. 25
- Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28
Thanksgiving Day, in particular, is the least crowded travel day of the holiday week. Only about 1.5 million travelers passed through U.S. security checkpoints last year. Additionally, flights on Thanksgiving Day tend to be cheaper, with average fares at $244.
For the return trip, opt for these days:
- Wednesday, Dec. 4
- Tuesday, Dec. 3
- Black Friday, Nov. 29
Black Friday is also one of the least crowded travel days of the week, providing a good opportunity to fly home without the stress of crowded airports.
By planning carefully and avoiding peak travel days, you can enjoy a smoother, less stressful Thanksgiving trip.
