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Monday, November 9, 2026Nov 9

With record numbers hitting the roads for Thanksgiving, here’s what you need to know to prepare

Staff Photo by Robin Rudd/   Eastbound traffic on Interstate 24 is at a near standstill, while traffic zips by in the westbound lanes, in this scene from the South Seminole Drive Bridge on November 16, 2019.  Thanksgiving holiday traffic is often affected by inconveniences such as weather and construction.
Staff Photo by Robin Rudd/ Eastbound traffic on Interstate 24 is at a near standstill, while traffic zips by in the westbound lanes, in this scene from the South Seminole Drive Bridge on November 16, 2019. Thanksgiving holiday traffic is often affected by inconveniences such as weather and construction. Staff Photo by Robin Rudd/ Eastbound traffic on Interstate 24 is at a near standstill, while traffic zips by in the westbound lanes, in this scene from the South Seminole Drive Bridge on November 16, 2019. Thanksgiving holiday traffic is often affected by inconveniences such as weather and construction.

A strong economy is expected to motivate more Americans to venture out this Thanksgiving.

More than 55 million people will travel for the holiday, going 50 or more miles from home. That’s a nearly 3% increase from last year and the highest number in 14 years, according to AAA.

“Millions of thankful Americans are starting the holiday season off right with a Thanksgiving getaway,” said Paula Twidale, vice president of AAA Travel. “Consumer spending remains strong, thanks to increasing wages, disposable income and household wealth, and travel remains one of their top priorities for the holiday season.”

For those planning to venture out for the holiday, here are some things to know:

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