Thanksgiving travel 2023: RDU expects record crowds, but the reunions make the hassle worthwhile
Rain early Wednesday contributed to holiday travel hassles Wednesday in the Triangle and across the country, but those who weathered rain and crowds told WRAL News that the trip was well worth it.
Greeting his daughter Elliot at Raleigh-Durham International Airport is an annual tradition for Scott Haynes.
"It's everything that I get to spend the holidays with them," Elliot Haynes said on her arrival from Florida Wednesday afternoon.
Dad, mom and brother drove from Richmond to pick her up.
Crowds at Raleigh-Durham International Airport were expected to exceed the record set in 2019. RDU predicted that more than 286,000 people would travel during the Thanksgiving period.
Projections show passenger traffic could top the record set in 2019 by nearly 10% and outpace 2022 by 27%.
"It was hectic," said Gabby Kohn, who was also arriving from Florida. "The line at TSA was like two hours long. It was awful."
A spokesman said the average wait in security at RDU was 30 minutes on Wednesday. TSA pre-check passengers were clearing the line in 10 minutes.
Airport officials are asking travelers to arrive at least two hours before their flight.
If you're planning on bringing food, make sure you give yourself some extra time at TSA. You may have to go through additional screening. If you're not sure what foods you're allowed to bring, you can click here for more information.
The busiest day at RDU is expected to be Sunday, followed by Wednesday and Monday. RDU will increase staffing during peak travel hours and is working with business partners, including the airlines and TSA, to prepare for the influx of passengers.
The expectation for a record-breaking number of holiday travelers this year makes it more important than ever to follow some simple travel tips:
Book parking online: Travelers can book parking at parkrdu.com for guaranteed entry into the deck or lot of their choice. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
Try new options: ParkRDU Express recently reopened, expanding parking by 1,000 spaces. ParkRDU Express is a convenient trunk-to-terminal service that offers airport guests assistance with their luggage and a direct shuttle to the terminals. The Express lot is located on International Drive near Park Economy 4.
Arrive early: Travelers should allow plenty of time to park, check in and go through security. RDU officials recommend arriving two hours early for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. Keep in mind that airlines begin boarding 30 to 40 minutes before departure.
Use the cell lot: If you are picking someone up from the airport, use our free Cell Lot to make curbside pickup run smoothly. Follow the signs on campus the lot, located at 1000 Trade Drive, then wait for a call or text letting you know your loved one has arrived. Be sure to give them 30 minutes after their arrival time to pick up their bags and meet you on the curb. To ease congestion at Terminal 2, you can pick passengers up at the arrivals or departures curb.
Prepare for security screening: Brush up on what is allowed at the TSA checkpoint. Take a few minutes to learn about TSA policies and expedited screening options, including TSA PreCheck and CLEAR.
