Another Record Year for Holiday Travel Amid Potential Government Shutdown

We are in the holiday home stretch and that means some pretty busy travel days are approaching.

Holiday travel this time of year is already pretty stressful, but the government shut down looming in the background is adding more stress and uncertainty to travelers.

AP

Whether you’re driving to see family or catching a flight for the holidays, travelers can expect record-breaking numbers on the road and in the skies.

Here’s what you need to know to prepare for the busiest travel days of the year.

Record-Breaking Travel 

Over 119 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Traffic is stopped as people enter the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, in Atlanta.MIKE STEWART / AP

According to AAA, this number surpasses pre-pandemic records from 2019. Around 90% of travelers will travel by car, while airlines prepare for over 54 million passengers to passthrough during the 19-day holiday period (a 6% increase from last year).

Busiest Travel Days

Are you flying over the holidays? The busiest days are the Friday and Sunday before Christmas, as well as December 26, 27, and 29.

MCO

Travelers can expect lighter air traffic on Christmas and New Year’s Day, but highways could see travel times up to 30% longer than normal. Sunday is predicted to be the most congested travel day by car.

If you are in Boston, New York City, Seattle, or Washington, D.C., pack your patience. These are among the cities likely to experience the worst delays.

Potential Government Shutdown

With a potential government shutdown looming as early as Saturday, travelers are left wondering how it could impact their plans.

 (Photo by KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

The good news? Airport operations and flights are unlikely to see immediate disruptions, as essential personnel like air traffic controllers and TSA agents will continue to work.

However, if the shutdown extends into January 2025, it could potentially lead to staffing shortages, longer security lines, and delayed flight operations.

Weather and Othe Unexpected Challenges

 (Elizabeth Flores /Star Tribune via AP)

While the extended holiday travel period helps to distribute the rush, there are unexpected disruptions like winter storms or technical outages that can still affect your travel plans.

Airlines are preparing for packed flights, and unfortunately that means potential cancellations or delays that may leave passengers with fewer rebooking options, especially on smaller carriers.

Travel Tips to Stay Ahead

Traveling can definitely be stressful this time of year and planning ahead is the best way to avoid unnecessary stress:

• For drivers: Check traffic forecasts, watch for weather conditions, and consider alternative routes.
• For flyers: Arrive early and monitor your flight status. Use theTSA app or download your local airport app for updated info

With a little preparation, you can navigate the holiday hustle and make it to your destination safely. Happy Holidays!

Credit: Breeze Airways

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Article Source: CBS News

Feature Photo: Getty