More Americans are traveling this Thanksgiving than what's been seen since 2005.

AAA projects more than 54 million Americans will journey more than 50 miles away from home this Thanksgiving. That is almost a five percent increase over last year. Expect to be doing a lot of waiting, whether it’s in lines or in traffic — 2.5 million more people are traveling compared to last Thanksgiving.

AAA says it’s because of higher wages that more people have the extra cash to travel, even though gas prices are up about 20 cents more than last year.

Albany International Airport is prepared for the rush of travelers. TSA lines are moving, as well as some extra check-ins open throughout Wednesday. The airport has volunteers on hand, as well as therapy dogs for those who may get some pre-flight jitters.

"I'm on my way to Atlanta to surprise my son," said traveler Deborah Quattlebaum.

It's all about family this holiday as many fly across the country to see their loved ones. Quattlebaum has been separated from her son for months as he serves in the military. She says everything is packed and ready to go for any occassion.

"Girl you should see the bags; I'm ready for any weather," said Quattlebaum. 

Just as important to pack is your patience this holiday season with travel numbers expected to be the highest since 2005. 

The Albany airport worked to ensure all Wednesday travels went as smooth as possible - extra volunteers were at service and even therapy dogs on hand for those having some pre-flight jitters. 

 

 

Over in the Capital Region, the snow squall kept drivers slow on Wednesday on the Thruway between exits 26 and 27. The quick burst of snow and strong wind made its away across the region in the early morning to mid-afternoon.

The Pattersonville Travel Plaza kept busy all day Wednesday as motorists made their way out to central and western New York.

People were using the location to take a break from travel, get some gas, or food.

"The wind is blowing my car around a lot on the Thruway so I'm getting pushed around quite a bit but other than that it's not so bad," said one traveller. 

AAA says drivers can expect increased travel time on Sunday as people make their way home after a long weekend.

"It's a tradition that we've had for the last couple of years," said Connecticut resident Patrick Gingris. 

Gingris is headed to Cazenovia with his wife and kids for the holiday. This year, they are bringing stuffing dishes for the big feast.

"My brother in law does a terrific job of thanksgiving and it's nice to see all of my wife's family," said Gingris.

Grigris is one of hundreds who stopped at the Patterson Travel Plaza on Wednesday as drivers make their way out to central and western New York.

Many picked up a bite to eat or filled up their tank before continuing their journey.

"This year we're bringing two turkeys that are brining in our cooler right now, and some of the vegetables too," said New Hampshire resident Ginny Hassett.

During Hassett's eight hour and a half drive from New Hampshire to Buffalo, she dealt with the afternoon snow squall.

"It slowed us down a little bit but the roads weren't too slippery so it was okay," said Hassett.

With family and food on their minds, many are not letting the blustery winter conditions stop them from reaching their destination.

"I'm thankful I still get to go home and see everybody. I have a great job that's not that far from where I'm from, [so] it's nice to be able to travel and see everyone," said Canandaigua resident James Cross.