Why You Should Skip the Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner and Travel Instead
The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, family, and food—but let’s be real, Thanksgiving can sometimes feel more like a job than a holiday. From the planning to the cooking (especially if you’re the one hosting), it can be a lot. For me, Thanksgiving used to be all about my dad’s famous turkey and sides. He was the cook in our family, and his meals were legendary. But since he passed away, the Thanksgiving dinner has felt… different. And that got me thinking: why not change things up altogether and skip the traditional Thanksgiving dinner for an unforgettable travel adventure?
Here’s why traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday might be the best decision you make this year.
Why Thanksgiving Travel is the New Tradition
We all have that one friend or family member who seems to have a Pinterest-worthy Thanksgiving spread every year, right? But honestly, the thought of another year of kitchen chaos, prepping food, and trying to juggle everyone’s preferences can be a lot. Here’s the thing: you don’t have to do it.
Instead of spending your Thanksgiving stuck in the kitchen or managing your family’s unique needs, why not make new memories by traveling? Whether you go solo or with loved ones, there’s something incredibly freeing about getting away during the holiday season.
Break the Cycle of Stress
When my dad was alive, Thanksgiving was his holiday to shine. He cooked, we gathered, and there was no need for any other plans. But after he passed, the dynamic of our holiday dinners changed. It wasn’t the same without his big meals, and I found myself feeling stressed about how to fill the void. The first year we decided to travel instead of having a big meal at home, it was a game changer. No cooking. No cleaning. Just time spent exploring a new place and focusing on the people around me. The pressure of having the “perfect” Thanksgiving meal disappeared, and in its place was the freedom to enjoy a slower, more peaceful holiday.
Traveling during Thanksgiving is a great way to escape the stress and enjoy a change of pace. No meal planning, no family drama, just the opportunity to relax and recharge.
Make New Memories, Create New Traditions
Thanksgiving is all about family, right? But sometimes, creating new traditions can be just as meaningful. For me, traveling has been a way to connect with my loved ones in a way we never could during the typical Thanksgiving dinner. The beauty of travel is that it allows you to forge new memories together—ones that will last long after the holiday is over.
I remember the first Thanksgiving we spent in Puerto Rico. It was an unexpected trip, and we didn’t even plan to spend the holiday there. But there we were, enjoying the warm sun, local food, and each other’s company. We swapped stories, laughed more than I can remember, and discovered new parts of ourselves. It was such a refreshing change from the same old dinner routine. Since then, we’ve made it a tradition to travel during Thanksgiving—and let me tell you, there’s no going back!
Benefits of Traveling During Thanksgiving
Still on the fence? Let me share some of the major perks of traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Avoid the Chaos and Crammed Airports
Thanksgiving might be one of the busiest travel seasons, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find the perfect getaway. Traveling during the holiday can mean fewer crowds (if you know where to look) and better deals than you might expect. While some people rush to visit family, others are just like you—looking to escape the chaos and experience something new.
When we took our first Thanksgiving trip to the Caribbean, I was shocked at how much easier it was to navigate the airport. People tend to think travel during Thanksgiving is a nightmare, but once you get the hang of booking flights early and planning around peak times, it’s not so bad!
Spend Quality Time Together
One of the best things about traveling is that it allows you to bond in new and exciting ways. On our trip to Napa Valley last Thanksgiving, I found that traveling with family in a more relaxed environment (hello, wine tastings!) brought us closer than we’d ever been at a holiday dinner. There was no rush to finish the turkey before everyone had to leave, no stress about cleaning up. Instead, we spent our time exploring and enjoying the moments as they came.
New Culture, New Perspective
Thanksgiving is celebrated differently around the world (or not at all), and traveling offers a chance to experience how other cultures mark the holiday season. In places like Japan or even parts of the Caribbean, Thanksgiving might not be a big deal, but the holiday season is still full of local traditions that are worth experiencing. Traveling gives you the opportunity to explore these diverse customs and return home with a new appreciation for the world and its many ways of celebrating life.
How to Plan Your Thanksgiving Getaway
Now that you’re convinced to travel this Thanksgiving, how do you plan it? Here’s how to make sure everything runs smoothly:
Book Early for the Best Deals
While you can find good deals for Thanksgiving travel, booking early is key. Flights, hotels, and activities can fill up fast, so start planning at least 2-3 months in advance. If you’re flexible with dates, try to book your trip around the less crowded days (i.e., the days just before or after Thanksgiving) to avoid the busiest travel windows.
Pick the Right Destination
When choosing your Thanksgiving destination, think about the type of experience you want to have. Are you looking for relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both? If you prefer to unwind, consider beach destinations like Bali or the Caribbean. If you’re up for a cultural experience, places like Greece or South Africa offer breathtaking sights and rich history. There are no wrong choices—just choose something that excites you and your travel companions!
Travel With Loved Ones
Thanksgiving is about family, and while you may be skipping the traditional dinner, the idea of togetherness is still key. Traveling with loved ones—whether family or close friends—can be an incredibly bonding experience. Spending quality time away from the pressures of everyday life allows for deeper connection and shared memories.
Conclusion: Travel is the New Thanksgiving Tradition
The traditional Thanksgiving dinner might be a comforting ritual, but it doesn’t have to define your holiday. If you’re feeling burnt out by the cooking and hosting duties, I highly recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and traveling this year. You might just find that a new adventure, instead of a turkey, is exactly what your soul needs.
Whether it’s for a solo retreat, a couple’s getaway, or a family trip, traveling allows you to escape the stress, make new memories, and embrace the holiday season in an entirely fresh way. Who knows? You might just start a new tradition—one that involves more passport stamps than pie!
