How to Beat Holiday Traffic This Year: 6 Tips for Professional Drivers
Post Date - Oct 13, 2025
For many, the holiday season means crowded airports, long car rides, and packed shopping centers. For professional drivers, it means something different altogether—navigating the nation’s highways and roadways at the busiest travel time of the year. As we head into October, it’s the perfect time to prepare for the extra challenges holiday travel brings. We are committed to supporting our drivers with the tools, resources, and tips they need to stay safe, efficient, and confident behind the wheel. Here are the top six tips for beating holiday traffic this year.
1. Expect Heavier Traffic
From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, millions more travelers hit the road than is typical. Families, college students, and holiday shoppers all add to congestion. For professional drivers, this means planning for longer travel times and being extra alert around passenger vehicles that may make sudden stops or lane changes. A little extra patience goes a long way during these couple of months.
2. Plan Routes in Advance
Navigation apps and GPS are helpful, but during peak holiday travel, it’s wise to check routes ahead of time. Construction, weather conditions, and seasonal traffic patterns can all affect your ETA. Whenever possible, identify backup routes and plan fuel and rest stops in advance—this will save time and reduce stress when roads get crowded.
3. Watch the Weather
October often marks the start of unpredictable weather, especially in northern states, but across the entire country as well. By November and December, snow, ice, and freezing rain can quickly change road conditions. Keep an eye on forecasts before heading out and adjust schedules when possible to avoid driving through dangerous storms. Equipping your truck with winter gear (chains, de-icer, extra warm clothing) is also a smart step.
4. Prioritize Rest and Wellness
Holiday schedules can be demanding, but skipping rest is never worth the risk. Be sure to take regular breaks, eat balanced meals when possible, and stay hydrated. Fatigue slows reaction time, and with extra holiday traffic, staying sharp is more important than ever. Your safety is not more important than any load.
5. Stay Connected
During the holidays, communication with dispatch, customers, and even loved ones is key. Keep your phone and communication devices charged, and check in regularly. Whether it’s to confirm a delivery schedule or to send holiday wishes home, staying connected adds peace of mind for everyone and can make coping with holiday traffic patterns easier.
6. Bring the Holiday Spirit Along
Life on the road during the holidays can feel different, but it doesn’t have to feel lonely. Small touches—a favorite holiday playlist, seasonal snacks, or decorations for your cab—can help bring some holiday cheer along for the ride and lower your overall stress while you’re in the driver’s seat, making America’s holidays happen.
Holiday travel can be stressful, but with preparation, professionalism, and patience, you can keep America moving safely and efficiently through the season. As always, your safety is our top priority, and we’re grateful for the dedication and expertise you bring to the road every day of the year.
Let’s stay safe, plan ahead, and drive with confidence this holiday season.