DALLAS – Millions of Texans hit the roads on Wednesday as Thanksgiving travel picked up across the state, creating heavy traffic and long waits at gas stations and charging stops. 

Airports were also busy as travelers headed to holiday destinations nationwide.

5.3 Million Texans

What we know:

For many drivers, the journey was fueled by thoughts of holiday meals as much as the miles traveled. Travelers listed off their contributions to Thanksgiving dinner, broccoli rice and cheese casserole, brown-sugar ham, and turkey, while preparing for the congestion.

Traffic was a top concern as drivers braced for backups on major corridors, including Interstate 35. 

AAA estimates 5.3 million Texans are traveling by car during the holiday period, urging drivers to remain patient. 

“Just be nice and not rush,” said Josh Harvey. “You’re going to get there anyway.”

The agency projects that Wednesday afternoon and evening will be among the busiest travel windows of the week. 

Some drivers reported spotting license plates from as far away as Arkansas, Colorado and Florida as out-of-state visitors made their way through Texas.

Long travel waits

Local perspective:

“I’m expecting it to be really crazy going north,” said traveler Ronda Kolch, who described the roads as already hectic.

At fuel stations and charging hubs, waits were common. “I thought I was getting here at a good time, but apparently not,” said electric vehicle driver Jordan Haygood, who encountered a 25-minute wait to charge. 

Another traveler, Andrea Negron, said local stations were “filled up” as traffic increased.

Some drivers opted to redirect their routes toward popular stops, including Buc-ee’s, where congestion was also heavy. “I couldn’t find a gas pump,” Kolch said. “People are going to run over each other just trying to find a spot.”

Others offered reminders to keep safety in mind during the rush. “Be safe, don’t drink, wear your seatbelt,” said driver Danarious Jordan. “Just love everybody.”

Despite the delays, many travelers said the time on the road would be worth it once they arrived. Feeling grateful to reunite with family.

Planning the trip home

What you can do:

AAA advises that the return trip could be just as slow. Travelers heading home on Sunday, Nov. 30, should expect heavier traffic than usual, and the organization recommends considering a Saturday return for a more manageable drive.

The Source: Information in this article was provided from interviews conducted by FOX 4’s Vania Castillo.

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