WASHINGTON — If this isn't your first Thanksgiving, then you probably know, this week ahead will be the busiest for holiday travel this season, and there maybe reason to leave even earlier this year.
AAA estimates a record 80 million people will be traveling 50 miles or more to Grandma's house for turkey dinner.
Ronald Reagan Airport is already seeing an uptick in passengers, and it's only expected to get busier. WUSA9 spoke with travelers as they were getting ready to board their flight.
"Trying to get in early so we can take our time through everything, 'cause it's kind of a lot when you travel with a little one," Ben Stone said.
The Stone family is heading to Kentucky for their baby's first Thanksgiving.
"I like the cranberry sauce out of the can, so that's a tradition for us," Kendra Stone said.
While many travelers are headed to see family, others are using the holiday for a getaway.
"Oh yeah, this was just to leave the house this morning," Julia Vargas said laughing.
Vargas is off to South Beach in Florida where the weather is much more like summer.
"Very hot, a lot of palm trees, a lot of people," she said.
According to AAA, flight costs this year are up about 3%, but that's not stopping nearly 6 million people from flying across the country. In fact, travel numbers have surpassed 2019 levels, pre-pandemic.
On the ground, gas prices are down, encouraging a record number of drivers this holiday. AAA estimates nearly 72 million people will hit the roads. And drivers along the East Coast in a dozen states could find gas for under $3.00 a gallon.
"It's just nice to get together and eat since we kind of live far away. It's good to see all the cousins, aunts, and uncles," Ben Stone said.
Besides good company, Thanksgiving also means another favorite tradition.
"I usually like the football, and I just eat everything," he added.
And that's why so many put up with the delays and congestion. So, if you’re traveling this week, remember to plan for extra time. The TSA is reminding travelers that liquids like gravy, cranberry sauce, or champagne over 3.4 ounces must go in checked bags.