Photo: Daniel SLIM / AFP / Getty Images
The coronavirus pandemic is taking a back seat for a large number of travelers who will take over airports and highways this week in a number not seen since before COVID – 19 will stop travel at the beginning of 2020 .
AAA predicts that 53. 4 million Americans will travel this week for Thanksgiving , just 5% less than those who traveled for the holiday in 2019 , and a 13% more than a year ago.
Some travel specialists predict that air traffic this Thanksgiving will surpass the one registered in 2019 . So you are already warned, if you will take a flight during the following days do not forget to arrive at the airport with enough time to despite the fact that airlines claim to be prepared to receive hundreds of travelers.
However, any kind of weather or work phenomenon could ruin everything. The airlines have done their best to keep things running smoothly this Thanksgiving week across the country but the specter of a shortage of staff and violence on flights continue to affect many companies.
In fact, in recent months several airlines, such as Southwest , Spirit and American , have experienced large-scale delays and cancellations due to issues IT and lack of staff .
Airports throughout the country are recommending to travelers to arrive up to two hours before the flights starting this weekend. In addition, you must inform you in advance at your airline to make sure your flight is on time.
Prices for heaven
The increase in pre-Christmas trips occurs despite an increase in prices in almost all areas of the hotel industry .
The increase in fuels has triggered the rates s airlines and gasoline prices that are affecting rental cars and even rates in hotels according to different travel tracking sites.
The average rental car price is $ 80 dollars per day , versus the $ 45 dollars a year ago, but less than the $ 120 daily dollars recorded in the summer.
Prices of hotels average $ 187 dollars per night over Thanksgiving weekend , 3% more than Labor Day weekend prices.
Plane tickets
The prices of the plane tickets for the Thanksgiving holidays, meanwhile, have uploaded a 23% with respect to 2020, up to $ 300 d lares on a round trip.
According to the airfare and hotel site, Hopper, Christmas prices are expected to be even higher with an average of $ 390 dollars round trips.
By now, most people are traveling because they haven’t been able to do it for a long time, which is increasing the demand for services and causing travelers to be less sensitive to the prices that were registered before the start of the pandemic , however, that perception will change with the arrival of the new year.
For now, planes will be full next to air terminals and roads will look crowded for the next few days. If you are going to travel, you must bring an extra suitcase of patience and a dose of joy.
Additional tips
Take your time
Roads and airports are expected to be crowded. You should leave home well in advance as delays are expected at airports and highways.
Book in advance
If you are still looking for a plane ticket for the end of December There are still accessible prices for all budgets .
Don’t forget your mask
Airlines and airports continue to require that all travelers over 2 years of age wear a mask when not eating or drinking . In addition, restaurants, hotels and other businesses may require its use depending on your destination.
Don’t forget your vaccination card
Many cities like Los Angeles and New York, in addition to their theaters, restaurants and other closed places require proof of vaccination to enter.
You may be interested in:
Thanksgiving Day: only 32% of those who want to travel, plan to drive due to high fuel prices
American Airlines increases the salary of surcharges vacations to avoid flight cancellations