Traveling home for Thanksgiving? You’re not alone. According to AAA, an estimated 82 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles away from home between Thursday, November 25, and Monday, December 1. Of these travelers, 89% plan to travel by car, and 7.4% plan to travel by plane.
While Thanksgiving is meant for good times spent with family and loved ones, it’s also important to remember to be safe while traveling.
If you’re traveling by plane, make sure your driver’s license has the Real ID star. Since May of 2025, anyone wanting to fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings must have the Real ID star on their driver’s license. If you don’t have the Real ID star on your license, don’t worry. You can still board your flight; you may need to show an additional form of ID to TSA, like a passport. The full list of acceptable IDs can be found by visiting https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.
Not planning on flying to your destination? There are still important automotive safety tips to keep in mind during your holiday travels. First, ensure your car is in good condition: your headlights work, your tires are well-inflated, your heater works, etc. If you’re able to fix it before you hit the road, definitely do it. If you’re traveling alone, share your location with family or friends to ensure you’re safe while traveling.
Second, make sure you’re well-rested and sober while driving: you’re more prone to motor vehicle accidents when you’re tired or drunk. On a similar note– follow the rules of the road. Try to avoid speeding, and drive extra cautiously in construction zones. And the golden rule of driving: stay off your phone. Since 2019, Tennessee has been a hands-free state, meaning it is illegal to drive while holding a cellphone or other mobile device. Nothing on your phone is worth killing yourself or someone else.
Enjoy your break, Bucs, and be safe!
