Your First Thanksgiving on the Road? Here's How to Stay Safe
Driving during Thanksgiving can be stressful—especially if it's your first time behind the wheel for a major holiday. Roads are crowded, drivers are rushed, and weather can be unpredictable. But with a solid plan and a few smart habits, you can avoid the worst of it and arrive safely. This guide covers the essential rules, prep tips, and traffic strategies every new driver should know before hitting the road.
Peak Travel Times to Avoid
Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Here's when traffic is typically at its worst:
Tuesday (4–8 p.m.): Many people hit the road after school and work, leading to a spike in congestion.
Wednesday (11 a.m.–8 p.m.): This is the most crowded day for driving. Expect heavy delays.
Sunday (12–8 p.m.): Most travelers are returning home, creating long backups throughout the afternoon and evening.
Pro Tip: Travel before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday, or even leave on Thanksgiving morning to skip most of the traffic.
More Traffic Means More Risk—But You're in Control
Increased traffic brings longer delays, more aggressive drivers, and added stress. Staying in control starts with knowing what to expect.
Expect delays and plan for extra time. A relaxed schedule helps you stay calm.
Drive defensively at all times. Focus on anticipating what others may do, rather than reacting impulsively. Learn proven defensive driving techniques that reduce risk.
Stay calm and centered. Whether it's listening to music or snacking (safely), find ways to stay grounded behind the wheel.
Pre-Trip Vehicle Check: Start With Safety
Before you head out, take 15 minutes to check the condition of your vehicle. A well-prepped car can prevent accidents and delays.
Tires: Check pressure using a gauge and inspect tread depth using the penny test. Replace worn tires.
Lights: Make sure all lights—headlights, brake lights, and turn signals—are working properly.
Brakes: Listen for unusual noises and notice if the pedal feels soft or spongy.
Windshield and wipers: Ensure visibility by topping off washer fluid and replacing worn blades.
Fluids: Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels.
What to Pack in Your Emergency Kit
Even if you don't expect issues, having an emergency kit shows that you're prepared and responsible.
Jumper cables in case of a dead battery
A stocked first-aid kit
A working flashlight with extra batteries
A phone charger or portable power bank
Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
A warm blanket, gloves, and hat if you're in a colder area
Reflective triangles or flares to stay visible if pulled over
Rules of the Road to Follow During the Holiday Rush
Following basic road safety laws becomes even more critical when traffic is heavy.
Maintain Safe Speeds and Space
Drive at or below the posted speed limit, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Follow the 3-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. In poor weather, increase that to 4 or 5 seconds.
Use Signals and Make Thoughtful Merges
Always use your turn signal before changing lanes.
Check your mirrors and blind spots before merging.
Be patient and wait for a safe opening. Don't force your way in.
Avoid Aggressive Driving
If someone tailgates you, safely move over and let them pass.
Avoid eye contact or gestures with aggressive drivers. Understanding how to de-escalate road rage situations can keep you safe.
Keep your focus on driving safely—not on others' bad behavior.
Stay Focused and Fight Fatigue
Long drives and slow traffic can wear you out fast. Stay sharp with these habits:
Put your phone away before you start driving. Set your GPS and music playlist ahead of time.
Take a break every two hours. Use the time to stretch, eat, or swap drivers if possible.
Don't drive drowsy. If you feel tired, pull over and rest. Even a short nap can make a big difference.
Holiday Hazards to Watch For
Blackout Wednesday
The night before Thanksgiving sees a spike in impaired driving. Understanding the dangers of holiday drinking and driving can help you stay alert. Be extra cautious if you need to drive that night. Watch for swerving or erratic drivers, and report suspected drunk drivers to 911.
Autumn Weather Surprises
Wet leaves can be just as slippery as ice. Fog can lower visibility. Snow requires slower speeds and more distance between cars. Before your trip, check these fall driving safety tips and adjust your driving accordingly.
Even If You're Nervous, You're Not Alone
Even if you're anxious about your first holiday drive, remember that being prepared makes all the difference. Even if the traffic is intense or your family keeps asking for your ETA, you've got the tools and knowledge to handle it. This is just one more step on your journey as a safe, confident driver.
Before You Go
Map out your route using a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze.
Let someone know your travel plan and check in during scheduled stops.
Check the full weather forecast for your route and prepare accordingly.
Final Thought
Arriving safely is more important than arriving quickly. With the right preparation and mindset, you'll not only survive Thanksgiving traffic—you'll thrive in it. Safe travels.
