Essential Tips for Navigating NYC Airports During the Busy Thanksgiving Travel Surge

Travel Tips for the Busy Holiday Season at New York Airports

Travelers can expect about 400,000 people arriving or departing from New York area airports each day from November 25 to December 2. JFK and Newark will see the heaviest crowds. This year will likely be the busiest ever for these airports, with a 3% increase in travelers compared to last Thanksgiving.

Prepare for the Crowds

Sunday, December 1, will be the peak travel day. Jason Rabinowitz, an airline analyst, suggests checking in before heading to the airport. Use express bag-drop services for faster processing and have your food planned in advance. Download airline apps to check flight status and receive boarding passes.

Choose Your Transportation Wisely

To avoid traffic, use public transport or ride-hailing services. If flying from JFK, consider getting dropped off at the AirTrain to avoid construction delays at terminals. For those traveling light, consider using Citi Bike, available near LaGuardia’s Terminals B and C.

Pack Smartly for Security

The TSA advises packing items like gravy and cranberry sauce in checked luggage if they weigh more than 3.4 ounces. With a national increase in holiday travelers, expect long lines. Use TSA PreCheck to skip the lines; it costs up to $85 and is valid for five years. Travelers flying with Delta and United can also use touchless identity verification for a quicker experience.

Be Ready for International Arrivals

For international arrivals, Thanksgiving may not be peak time; Christmas is expected to bring a surge. Customs and Border Protection is prepared for increased traffic. Most international passengers do not face long waits at JFK and Newark. Using Global Entry or the Mobile Passport app can speed up the customs process.

By following these tips, travelers can navigate the holiday season at New York airports more easily and enjoy a smoother trip.