Thanksgiving travelers in California should plan carefully to avoid heavy traffic. According to INRIX, the worst times to drive are Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, with major delays expected on Los Angeles routes. Travelers heading from LA to Bakersfield via I-5 North on Wednesday evening could face over three hours of travel, more than doubling usual times. San Francisco drivers heading to Sacramento via I-80 East on Tuesday night may encounter an 88% increase in travel time.
Thanksgiving Day offers minimal congestion, making it the best time to hit the road. Drivers returning home Sunday should leave early morning, while Monday travel will mix holiday and work commutes. INRIX advises using traffic apps to avoid bottlenecks. Stay informed to enjoy smoother travels this holiday season.