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by Abigail Quinn
LOWCOUNTRY, S.C. (WCIV) — Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel days of the year as families gather to celebrate the holiday. In preparation of an abundance of travelers coming in and out of the state, the Charleston International Airport and SCDOT have released some reminders and key tips to make travel easy and enjoyable.
“Thanksgiving is the kickoff to the holiday travel season. With record-breaking numbers year after year, we expect to be busy this year as well,” said Elliott Summey., president and CEO of the Charleston International Airport. “With just a bit of advance planning you can focus on enjoying the holiday with your loved ones”
According to Triple A, nearly 82 million Americans will be traveling for Thanksgiving with almost 90% of those travelers going by car.
In order to prevent getting stuck in a major traffic jam SCDOT suggests traveling during non peak traffic times. Drivers should avoid being on the road Wednesday afternoon and the Sunday after the holiday.
Additionally, to further ease the burden on drivers, SCDOT has committed to restricting non emergency interstate lane closures to help with traffic flow.
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For travelers who will be flying in for the holiday, The Charleston International Airport also has you covered with a few tips and tricks.
The first of the tips is that passengers should arrive early to the airport. Charleston International Airport states that they recommend to arrive at least two hours before the flight is set to depart.
Parking spaces are anticipated to fill quickly during this busy travel time, so drivers are advised to plan to park and allow extra time for remote parking and shuttle services to the terminal. A 24 hour complimentary shuttle service is offered for travelers who park in remote or seasonal parking spaces.
READ MORE | Officials urge families to plan safety for 'Blackout Wednesday' before Thanksgiving
The area surrounding the Charleston International Airport is undergoing some construction so travelers may encounter temporary detour or traffic pattern changes in certain areas. Directional signage will be in place to ensure that everyone ends up where they need to be.
Individuals who are flying domestic can utilize the CHS Check ‘N Go free baggage check stations, which are located on the terminal front curb, and at a remote check-in station located on the 2nd level of the Daily Parking Garage.
While on the topic of luggage, the airport reminds flyers to pack carry-on luggage wisely and check the TSA website for what can be packed in carry on and what can be packed in checked baggage. As always, electronics, liquids, powders and food should be packed in an area that is easy to access, as those items will need to be separately screened by the TSA.
At any point during travel in or out of the airport, flight status can be double checked with the air carriers or on the airport website.
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