thanksgiving travel

SpotHero Holiday Road Trip Tips

This holiday season, travelers may be catching a flight, taking the train, or hitting the open road. Forbes is reporting that Thanksgiving flights this year are 30% more expensive than they were in 2021. Whether you’re renting a vehicle or packing up the caravan, SpotHero is here to help you get over the river and through the woods this holiday season and spend time feasting with your friends and family.

If you’re planning on road-tripping to Thanksgiving this year, we’ve rounded up some of our best tips to help keep things moving and get you there safely.

1. Plan your route before you leave

You can always expect an increase in traffic around the holidays. Our first tip is to take the time to map out your road trip beforehand. Try programming your trip into Waze, which helps you see if you’ll encounter road closures, heavy traffic, or hazards before you hit the road. Don’t forget to check the weather before you take off too, as rain and snow can cause significant delays. If your trip allows, you can plan to take the more scenic route and enjoy the views on your drive. Don’t forget to plan a handful of rest stops every couple of hours to take a restroom break, stretch your legs, grab some caffeine, and switch drivers.

2. Stock your car with essential items

If you know you’ll be in the car for some time, make sure you load up on snacks, bottled water, hand sanitizer, and other essentials. Stocking up before your trip can help limit the number of stops on your way there. Here are a couple of our favorite essential items you don’t want to forget:

  • Blanket
  • Cooler
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Headphones
  • Ice scraper
  • Leash and doggy bags
  • Masks
  • Neck pillow
  • Portable charger
  • Sunglasses
  • Sweatshirt
  • Tablet for entertaining the kids
  • Toiletry bag and extra clothing
  • Umbrella

Don’t forget extra blankets, warm weather gear, and jumper cables in case of any emergencies!

3. Plan somewhere to park on arrival

SpotHero offers off-street parking all over North America. You can easily search for parking near hotels, neighborhoods, airports, and more. Simply type in your destination, review prices, and reserve a spot before you leave the house! Booking a spot ahead of time gives you an exact address to plug into your GPS. No more circling the block searching for a spot! With winter weather on the horizon, use the search filters to find covered garages and avoid digging your car out of the snow when you’re ready to leave!

If you’re expecting ice and snow ahead of your trip, check out our guide to help prepare your car for winter weather to winterize your car before you take off.

Whether you’re road-tripping, flying, or parking it at home this holiday season, SpotHero wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!