If you're traveling this Thanksgiving, here are some tips for the airport or for the road

Wednesday, November 23, 2022
Good news if you're in charge of bringing tamales to Thanksgiving
If you are traveling for Thanksgiving, get to the airport early because officials expect 2.5 million flyers to pass through Bush and Hobby airports.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- If you're traveling to spend Thanksgiving at a family member's house, it's almost time to hit the road. But remember, if you are flying or driving Wednesday, be patient because you are not alone on the highway or in the airport.

If you are heading to the airport, be sure to get there early because you will face a couple of issues that could slow you down.

ABC13's Jeff Ehling was at George Bush Intercontinental Airport early Wednesday morning to check on the lines in Terminal A.

You can expect to find packed parking garages at both Bush and Hobby airports on Wednesday. So, to get around that, consider having someone drop you off or use a ridesharing company.

And then even once inside the airport, there will be plenty of travelers ahead of you. Local officials said they expect about 2.5 million flyers to pass through Bush and Hobby.

That means you could face long lines at security, so it's better to get to the airport a couple of hours early.

Also, a reminder that large liquids must be placed in your checked bag, but food can be in your carry-on.

"Tamales, (are) our number one question. Yes, you can travel with them in your carry-on. However, if you have salsa, it must be limited to 3.4 ounces or go in your checked luggage," Patricia Mancha, a TSA spokesperson, said.

TSA says the number one violation is water bottles. You can't pass through the checkpoint with a water bottle, so get your water on the other side.

Also, don't forget your ID because that's something that happens fairly often with travelers.

If you are traveling by car, AAA said nearly 55 million people will be on the road across the country. They suggest leaving early and being patient with other drivers.

AAA estimates 4 million Texans will travel 50 or more miles from home for Thanksgiving with 90% of them driving. Travelers who spoke with ABC13 said they're thankful for the falling prices at the pump.

On average, a gallon of regular gas in Houston is $2.95 and $3.61 nationally.

SEE RELATED STORY: Houstonians gear up for busy travel season with big crowds expected at airports and roads