Stress-busting tips for traveling on Thanksgiving

Will you be joining the millions of Americans traveling this Thanksgiving? If so, brace yourself: from busy airports to congested roadways, the November long weekend is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Here are some tips to make the journey a little easier.

• Give yourself time. Since you won’t be the only one heading out of town, make sure to leave early enough to catch your flight, avoid traffic jams and arrive on time for dinner at your destination.

• Be flexible. The Wednesday before and the Sunday after Thanksgiving are the busiest days to travel in November. If possible, arrange your schedule so that you don’t have to go anywhere on those days.

• Stay connected. Make sure your phone’s fully charged before you leave home. There are many travel apps that can make your trip easier, from those that provide airport information and real time updates on flights, to maps that’ll alert you to traffic jams and suggest alternative routes.

• Be prepared. If you’re flying, put all of your liquids in a clear baggie to avoid issues when passing through security. If you’re driving, be sure to have plenty of snacks on hand and an emergency preparedness kit that includes road flares, a first aid kit, phone chargers and blankets.

Above all else, try to enjoy yourself. If you get frustrated, remember that Thanksgiving is about being thankful for what you have, including the freedom to get from one place to another safely, if not quickly.