As a service to commuters, we provide this getaway advice for those who are exiting NYC (via public transit) for the Thanksgving holiday. Read on for:

1. A look back at 2016: “What happened on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving last year?“
2. Clever Commute’s “FIVE T’s” – the key to a stress-free commute on get-away day.

(1) What happened on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving last year?

• In the 12:00 hour, terminals such as NY Penn and Grand Central were not crowded
  (nor were the trains!)
• However: by 1:15 PM things changed. People reported it to be as crowded as a typical rush hour
• In the 3:00 PM hour, riders at Port Authority shared news of long lines for buses
• Passenger volume remained high through the evening rush until as late as 7:00 PM

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(2) Here are Clever Commute’s “FIVE T’s” – the key to a stress-free commute on getaway day:

1. Tickets – tickets..Tickets…TICKETS. Get them early!
If you or your traveling companion will need a ticket, get it BEFORE Wednesday afternoon.
Lines are loooooong on getaway days.
Idea: LIRR, Metro North, NJ Transit and NY Waterway all have ticket apps!

2. Timing is crucial
Use the re-cap above as a guide…but add some padding to be safe.

3. Timetables and Schedule changes 
LIRR, Metro North and NJ Transit will provide (extra) getaway day service…but all 3 have date-specific trip planners on thier sites.

4. Terminal – Choose wisely

• If it is at all within your control, avoid NY Penn Station.
• NJT riders: consider Hoboken and/or Newark Penn
• LIRR riders:  consider Atlantic Terminal or Hunterspoint Avenue

5. Other Tips: 

• Dress in layers – the terminal or the trains can be warm
• Bring water/snacks – save time…save money. Plan ahead.
• “Baggage strategy” matters – There is going to be lots of luggage around on Wednesday.
• Pick/Pack your bag early and lightly!
• Make your plan now…Do NOT wait until Wednesday morning to start thinking about this.

Have a great holiday!